Switching from points to electronic ignition - Merc 3.0 liter, 1989 vintage

[slag]

I don't have my serial numbers in front of me, but I wanted to know what was the most cost effective way of moving from a points based ignition like I have to an electronic ignition in my old 1989 boat? Its a 3.0 liter, original engine. I originally looked at the hot spark unit a couple years ago. Does it work and is it really as simple as it seems? Just replace the breaker plate in the distributor and go? I'm looking specifically at the 3DEL4U1 unit and probably a coil as well. I have a centrifugal advance unit.

As long as serial numbers match up, it seems like this is a good option for around $100.00. What am I missing?

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Switching from points to electronic ignition - Merc 3.0 liter, 1989 vintage

lest see, costs more, dosent make you go any faster, cant trouble shoot them , cant repair on the water, soooooooooooooooo
whats makes them better?
points are cheap, easy to maintain, and work just the same ,
save your money and learn how to install, maintain, and replace them.

 

[slag]

Re: Switching from points to electronic ignition - Merc 3.0 liter, 1989 vintage

lest see, costs more, dosent make you go any faster, cant trouble shoot them , cant repair on the water, soooooooooooooooo
whats makes them better?
points are cheap, easy to maintain, and work just the same ,
save your money and learn how to install, maintain, and replace them.

points are maintenance items and you have to check them with a dwell meter regularly as well as clean them, replace them, etc. Less maintenance with a complete unit like this.

 

[thumpar]

Re: Switching from points to electronic ignition - Merc 3.0 liter, 1989 vintage

I put a Pertronix unit in my old boat. If you do it go with a Pertronix coil also. It makes the install really easy.

 

[hivoltg]

Re: Switching from points to electronic ignition - Merc 3.0 liter, 1989 vintage

I put in an electronic Mallory YLU distributor and oil filled internal resistor coil. Worked well for me.

 

[slag]

Re: Switching from points to electronic ignition - Merc 3.0 liter, 1989 vintage

I see there are a lot of options out there. I'll research some more. Thanks all for your advice.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Switching from points to electronic ignition - Merc 3.0 liter, 1989 vintage

Just keep your old distributor plate with a new set of points in the glovebox, just in case...:facepalm:

 

[slag]

Re: Switching from points to electronic ignition - Merc 3.0 liter, 1989 vintage

Just keep your old distributor plate with a new set of points in the glovebox, just in case...:facepalm:

LOL. I have 3 boys and two paddles. That's my backup!

 

[achris]

Re: Switching from points to electronic ignition - Merc 3.0 liter, 1989 vintage

Electronic Conversion Kit - Sierra - iboats

 

[thumpar]

Re: Switching from points to electronic ignition - Merc 3.0 liter, 1989 vintage

Electronic Conversion Kit - Sierra - iboats

I believe those are the Pertronix ignitor units relabeled. I would recommend the ignitor II for the added key on protection.