Merc 60 6 hp point settings

Rda2187

Cadet
Joined
Oct 21, 2015
Messages
6
Aquired this engine a week ago (serial # 2084266.). Believe it's a 1996 merc model 60 6hp. Engine would not start, had fuel and spark, but would only start with with starting fluid and run very rough. after inspection of the points in the stator, only 1 side opens up when cam is turned, other side remains closed on every rotation. So I assume this would cause only 1 cylinder to fire. Every where I look I can't seem to find specs.

Also after bringing plugs to local marine shop they told me the NGK plugs I had were automotive and not marine, can anybody recommend proper plugs. Also had no specs for points and said "eye it up". To side that is opening. I'd like something a little more legit then eyeing it up

-Ryan
 

Texasmark

Supreme Mariner
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Dec 20, 2005
Messages
14,873
Go to the top of the page and look under accessories. iboats sells or sells online service from Seloc marine catalogs. All your answers in there and are factual! Besides you will need the manual for changing your water pump impeller and adjusting your carbs and all that which will come along as days go by.
 

Chinewalker

Fleet Admiral
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Aug 19, 2001
Messages
8,902
You are at least 30 years off on your model year, as the Merc 60 is from the 1960s. Mercury did away with points by about 1973.

That said, your Merc 60 will have the Phelon based magneto and they generally get gapped at .018". I align the point cam rider with the keyway of the crankshaft. Also, make sure the points are SPOTLESS! No pitting, either!

For plugs, Champion J6Cs should work just fine if it takes a 3/8" reach plug, and I believe the L82C will work if it takes a 1/2" reach plug.
 

racerone

Supreme Mariner
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Dec 28, 2013
Messages
39,132
Agreed , need a serial # for a 1996 motor with points.---Or a picture of it.
 

Rda2187

Cadet
Joined
Oct 21, 2015
Messages
6
Typo!!! Ment 1966 oops. Yes well after hours and hours of googling I did find the .018 gap setting and adjusted accordingly. Also took very fine sand paper 1500 grit and gently cleaned each side. Will NGK or auto light plugs work or is champion the way to go? Once my impeller parts come next week I'll be able to see how she runs. Thanks for the replys
 

Texasmark

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 20, 2005
Messages
14,873
Merc OEM is NGK. Some people swear that Champions are junk. Funny, I used Champions when I was a kid back in the 1950's. The Ram Hemi trucks I had said that Champions are the only thing that will run in it....OEM words!
 

Chinewalker

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Aug 19, 2001
Messages
8,902
NGK was NOT the OEM plug when this motor was built. Stick with the Champions...
 
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