need a little help 1978 Baja with 470

[stingray43]

First off I would be grateful if anyone here would so kind as to reply and help!
I bought this boat and it was not running because it was not getting fire.
I am getting 12.37 volts on the + side of the coil I think it needs points and I do not know where to get them?
I need a manual and if anyone knows where to get one?

The engine turns over and i have great compression but no fire? I would like to find a cheap coil and some new points to order if anyone knows if there is a set of points that I can buy at a local auto parts store that will work? cross reference number?

How about a neutral safety switch?
I am an auto tech and I just switched to boats but still so much to learn.

Thank you for all of your help in advance

 

[salty3rd]

Re: need a little help 1978 Baja with 470

Save yourself some time and aggrivation and forget the points and switch over to an electronic ignition system. You can get a kit online or through your local marine parts store. Your neutral sefety switch will not let the engine turnover when in gear; just like trying to start your car in gear. However; the shift interupter switch which you are proably reffering to; eases the shifting of the drive. Unless the switch is depressed it should not affect the engine starting.

 

[Eric 3.7LX Alpha 1]

Re: need a little help 1978 Baja with 470

See the big Iboats logo at the top left of the page? right under is marine store, Here is your tune up kit:
http://www.iboats.com/Mercruiser-Tu...1365190--**********.278397766--view_id.270888

At the beginning of this forum "Adults Only" has loads of info that will help you get er running:
http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=288430

Read #17 & 18 in that link ^^^^^ they are for points ignition.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: need a little help 1978 Baja with 470

I am getting 12.37 volts on the + side of the coil I think it needs points and I do not know where to get them?

First off, with the key on and the starter NOT turning, you should have about 7 volts on the + side of the coil. There is a resistance wire (purple) that is supposed to run from the choke to the coil that reduces the voltage while the boat is running (like a ballast resistor). The po my have burned out the coil, or the points. If you put a stock coil on it the voltage will be too high. It is a Delco distributor so any auto parts store should have points. If you take off the cap and open and close the points you should be able to get a spark from the coil every time the points open. Good luck.