Mercruiser Ignition Coil (Thunderbolt)

[wewefirex2x]

Try to keep short and sweet! 1989 mercruiser 5.0 2 barrel carb thunderbolt ignition. Some problems have been stated about cruising up and down river and then shutting boat off, but when you go to start it doesn't. I was told my ignition coil has a short. I have been looking around and finally called MSD to see what could work. I was told I could use Part #'s 8202 blaster 2 or the 8222 high vibration.

MSD meantioned he recommended me using a external ballast resistor and a coil that was .8 ohms? Why would I need a ballast? All I want to do is replace the coil but was not sure if I should use stock with so many aftermarket options?

From MSD website:
Note: This Blaster Coil Kit is intended to be used with an MSD Ignition. If installing on a stock,
points style ignition system, a 0.8 ohm ballast resistor or resistor wiring MUST be
installed. MSD offers this Ballast Resistor as PN 8214 or the Blaster Coil Kits, PN 8200
and 8203 are equipped with one.
WARNING: Failure to use a ballast resistor could result in personal injury or component
failur

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Mercruiser Ignition Coil (Thunderbolt)

If you have a Thunderbolt ignition, you don't have points......​

 

[wewefirex2x]

Re: Mercruiser Ignition Coil (Thunderbolt)

Thanks Haut: That is what I thought but that's what MSD recommended (resistor). I just don't want something to happen with my ignition system. Should I go stock or use the MSD 8222. The coil is the only thing I need.

 

[Don S]

Re: Mercruiser Ignition Coil (Thunderbolt)

Why don't you order the proper OEM coil for the Thunderbolt ignition instead of reinventing the wheel?????

 

[wewefirex2x]

Re: Mercruiser Ignition Coil (Thunderbolt)

Don, Since you brought that up that is exactly what I will do. I just thought there may have been advantages with aftermarket.