my 50 hp mercury wont start

[bassinalways]

my 1972 model mercury 50 hp reacently went underwater, so then it wouldnt start. My dad took the distributor off to dry it out and when he put it back it cranked right up. But then would not start again after that. We think he somehow got it out of time. So could someone tell me how to set the timing. Also can anyone tell me if i can change a motor that old to a coil pack instead of a distributor.

 

[NathanY]

Re: my 50 hp mercury wont start

Timing on those motors is very critical. 3 degrees can gald a piston. If you dont have a manual, you will need to get one. If you have never timed a Merc with a distributor, I would take it to a competant mechanic and pay the 50 buck to have him do it. I am not aware of any way to change it from a distributor to a coil pack. I have never tried, but others might know how.