Spark jumping around on coil

Bill kubiak

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Jan 31, 2004
Messages
629
I have a 1992 350 mercruiser V-8. I heard a snapping noise and looked to see the spark coming from the coil wire boot down the lip of the coil to the electric posts on either side of the coil. What is wrong, the wire or the coil??
 

Bondo

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Apr 17, 2002
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71,291
Re: Spark jumping around on coil

Now that the coil tower has carbon tracking on it, You'll need to replace it......<br />I'd Also Check or Change the Plugs,+ Wires....<br />Tower leaks are Usually caused by It being the Easiest path to ground.... Bad Wires, or worn, over gapped plugs will also contribute to this....
 

Bill kubiak

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Jan 31, 2004
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629
Re: Spark jumping around on coil

The plugs only have a few hours on them. The wires look to be in good condition.<br />Is that spark a hairline crack in the coil itself?????
 

LubeDude

Admiral
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Oct 8, 2003
Messages
6,945
Re: Spark jumping around on coil

Bondos on the mark here, once this starts you will have to replace the coil. You cannot go by what the wires "Look like", You can check the resistance with an ohm meter, Id just replace them for the cost, but dont buy the cheepest ones you can find. Usually when this sparking all over the coil happens its because of a resistance issue like Bondo mentioned, Points, wires, etc. I would reccomend changing over to a pertonix electronic ignition at this time, you will never regret it.
 

Bill kubiak

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Jan 31, 2004
Messages
629
Re: Spark jumping around on coil

What coil do I ask for?? Any idea how much they are?? Gonna sell the boat to buy a newer model so I want to keep the cost down.
 

Bondo

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Re: Spark jumping around on coil

NAPA Auto parts # 18-5438 $46.30 list...$25.86 jobber....
 

Bill kubiak

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Jan 31, 2004
Messages
629
Re: Spark jumping around on coil

Can I use an auto coil on the motor?? if not, why not??
 

fireship1

Chief Petty Officer
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Aug 26, 2003
Messages
581
Re: Spark jumping around on coil

Hello, You can use an auto coil, Just make sure that it has bronze or brass terminals. Otherwise the terminals will corrode. You can go to any auto parts store and pick up a universal 12 volt coil. The better coils have windings that are sealed in epoxy (the innards) this makes them more vibration proof. Otherwise a standard oil filled design should serve you just fine. Good luck!
 
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