Mercruiser 1995 5.7 Timing

[Triple502]

I got my new long block installed and am finishing up with exhaust etc. The motor is a 95 5.7 4bbl Bravo 2 set up with the Thunderbolt ignition system. I am going down to the marina this weekend to install distributor, plugs and wires. I have looked at a few of the older forums on here and am trying to find a step by step procedure for getting this right (hopefully the first time). I did find a video on YouTube on how to set up a SBC distributor and how to set same. I need to know what the correct timing setting for that motor should be and whether that model needs to be put in "base mode" for the initial setting and what degrees does it need to be set at? This is my first attempt at a motor swap and so far it has gone pretty smooth. Please excuse my ignorance. Thanks in advance (no pun intended).

 

[alldodge]

Timing is 8 BTDC and needs to be set in base timing mode. Ground the Purple/White wire banana plug.

Setting Base Ignition Timing
1. Connect timing light to number 1 spark plug.
Connect timing light power supply leads (if
applicable) to 12 volt source.
2. Connect a shop tachometer to engine.
3. Using a jumper wire, connect the ignition system
timing lead “13” (PUR/WHT wire) to a good engine
ground (&#150. This locks the ignition module
into the “Base Timing Mode”.
4. Start engine and run at normal idle speed. Allow
engine to reach normal operating temperature.
5. Aim timing light at timing tab, located on the timing
gear cover and crankshaft torsional damper.
6. Adjust timing using the conventional method.

 

[Bt Doctur]

Locate #1 position on the cap, rotate motor untill #1 is on compression and slowly rotate motor untill timing mark on balancer is at 0 or in the slot
set dist to #1 of the cap and look and the oil pump drive slot. With a long large screwdriver turn oil pump to almost the same position When you have it correct, the dist will drop down to the intake manifold. slide lock into place and snug with the bolt.
Test start, if it runs, shut it off and put into base mode, adjust accordingly

 

[achris]

Thunderbolt IV or V?
If it's IV, then just point the timing light at the timing marks and adjust. If it's V, then you need to set the module into 'base mode', as above.

Chris........

 

[Triple502]

I'm not sure if it's a IV or V. It just says Thunderbolt Ignition on the plastic cover. It does have that purple wire hanging off the back.

 

[Triple502]

Is there a total advance number?

 

[achris]

1995 was the crossover year from TB-IV and V. Without knowing which unit you have nobody can tell you what settings you should be using. Do you have an engine serial number?

Chris.....

 

[Triple502]

Yes, it is 0F592004. Thanks.

 

[Triple502]

It does have the knock sensor that ties into the block drain on the starboard side of the motor, if that helps. Thanks.

 

[alldodge]

It does have the knock sensor that ties into the block drain on the starboard side of the motor, if that helps. Thanks.

Knock sensors are only on TB-V

 

[Triple502]

So the 8 BTDC is correct? Also is there a total advance number I should shoot for? Thanks for the help.

 

[alldodge]

So the 8 BTDC is correct? Also is there a total advance number I should shoot for? Thanks for the help.

Yes 8 BTDC
Timing advance is 22 degrees, with total advance of 30 degrees