Re: Idle Stabilizer Question...
Chris your timing from Mercury is 21* at cranking speed this is about 23*. Due to the characteristics of the ignition system Mercury's retard timing about 2* at WOT.
I would recommend reducing the WOT timing to 19* due to the quality of any of today's fuels. You will not notice any difference in how the engine runs but will be less prone to detonation. At cranking speed this will equal about 21*.
I always recheck my timing on all motors at WOT. You can do this at the river or lake without taking the boat off the trailer. Just back it in until the split between the lower unit and the mid section is at water level. Let the engine warm up as normal.
Using a good timing light check the timing at WOT, the rpm's should be somewhere around 4500 - 5000 rpm. Only take the throttle up to this for a few seconds, it is all you need to check timing. Make any adjustments with the engine off. Have a friend operate the throttle or disconnect the throttle cable and manually advance the throttle. This must be done in gear, prop on, in the water. Never rev a motor not in gear, on the hose without a load.
May scare the hell out of ya the first time!
