electronic ignition

[k9cop]

does anyone know if there is an electronic ignition conversion for 1989 omc 5.7 liter cobra that is compatible with the shift assist?

 

[Laddies]

Re: electronic ignition

I don't belive that anyones builds one that will work with shift assist

 

[seahorse5]

Re: electronic ignition

See a Johnson/Evinrude dealer. The conversion kit is listed in the dealer's Parts and Accessory Catalog in the Stern Drive section. The kit installs quickly and includes a new shift assist module. It is well worth the upgrade.

 

[marlinempress]

Re: electronic ignition

pertronix ignitor or ignitor II (preferrably the latter) come stock incompatible with the ESA module, but there's a really easy solution to it that they've even posted on their website, just takes a trip to radio shack and some soldering. Here's the linky: http://www.pertronix.com/tech_support/assets/diodefix.pdf The ignitor II should give you the best bang for your buck and as opposed to the ignitor it won't die if you accidentally leave the key on while beached or something.

 

[lakelivin]

Re: electronic ignition

seahorse, same for an '89 4.3L Cobra?<br /><br />One site I just browsed (didn't have anything for a 4.3L) included the following general statments about their kits:<br /><br />Electronic Conversion Kits for OMC Stern Drive Marine Engine Ignition System<br /><br />*Improved fuel economy as much as 2 to 1 over OMC stern drive point type system.<br /><br />*Increase spark plug life 2 to 3 times.<br /><br />What are chances you'd expect to see anything close to improvements that big? What type of improvements might one realistically expect?

 

[seahorse5]

Re: electronic ignition

You will find better starting and smoother idle as long as the motor is in good shape and tune. Since there is now wear or change in point condition or timing any more, the motor will not need period points and cond. replacement and re-timing.<br /><br />There are factory kits available for the V6 and V8 engines.<br /><br />Most folks notice a better running motor after installing the factory electronic ignition kit.

 

[kwoolard]

Re: electronic ignition

Do these electronic ignition conversion kits alter the tachometer readings? I have read some posts of others that have done the conversion and they state that their tach would not read accuratley above 3000rpm. Is this true and what is a fix for that?

 

[lakelivin]

Re: electronic ignition

k9cop,<br /><br />please let us know if you check out pricing. I'd be curious as to what a conversion kit WITH a new ESA (from Johnson/ Evinrude dealer, and presumably needing no mods), costs compared to the pertronix ignitor or ignitor II options.

 

[Boatist]

Re: electronic ignition

K9Cop<br />I just wonder what kind of problems you have had with your old points.<br /><br />I think what you get with electornic ingition is same HP same Miles per gallon and more chance to be stranded at sea. Maybe a little better idle.<br /><br />On my 1980 OMC I have changed the points one time even though they were working perfect. I changed the plugs twice but they were fine also. I kept the old points and plugs as a second spare. If they should ever fail I have two sets on board and can change with just a screw driver and a plug wrench. Would take less than 10 minutes to get back under way. If you gained HP or Fuel mileage I be all for it but all I have ever heard is a smoother idle. That probably means plugs were not gapped the same. <br /><br />If you do it keep the old parts and instructions so you can change back and get in on your own power.<br /><br />Ask how many have been left stranded with the pertronix ingitor because they left the key on when the engine stalled. <br /><br />I just do not see any advantage, Just more risk of not getting back in.

 

[Buttanic]

Re: electronic ignition

I agree with boatist. Keep the old parts to get you back to the dock when the electronic fails.