Cranks, No Start

[andrewjmoulton90]

I have a 1989 Maxum Bowrider. The engine is an inboard/outboard Mercruiser 3.0L GM 181 I/L4. I am trying to get the boat to start. I initially wasn't getting spark, so I replaced the old points ignition system and coil with a new EST system. After that replacement turned the key again, got some big pops from the carburetor, and the engine stopped turning. I then did some further digging and found that my timing was way off. I set the pulley on the crank to top dead center, and made sure my distributor head was pointing to plug 1. Now I turn the engine and it starts making more healthy sounding noises, but still doesn't start. I had a friend look at it, and he said its getting fuel. I have my battery hooked up to jumpers from my car, so I know it's getting power. Any idea what I should look at next?

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,..... Welcome Aboard,...... You had the distributor way outa time,.....

Now, with the hold down bolt barely snug,....
Turn the distributor body to get the timing closer, so it'll start, then set the timin' proper,....

 

[Scott Danforth]

get the motor on TDC of #1

then stab the dizzy, aligning rotor to #1 tower

then using the timing light during cranking, set the timing

then try to start