Use car coil in boat? Mercruiser 3.0

[arrkerr]

I've got a Mercruiser 3.0, and (per a previous thread) I may be having coil issues.

I read somewhere that the GM 3.0 was used in the 1960s Chevy II. I looked up the coil at Auto Zone, Duralast C819, and sure enough it seems to be similar resistance specs and everything to the coil in my boat, and is significantly cheaper ($22) than buying it at a marina, not to mention readily available.

Any reason why I shouldn't/couldn't use it?

Sorry for the crazy link, but this is the part:
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/ca...1&displayName=Coil+-+Ignition&searchText=c819

 

[mylesm260]

Re: Use car coil in boat? Mercruiser 3.0

There are two main things that *COULD* be different on a marine part vs an automotive part.

#1. Fire/explosion safety
#2. Corrosion resistance

I personally can't see any difference between an automotive coil and a marine coil, I would use the cheaper, more readily available automotive one myself:

Unless of course someone can offer you a reason why the automotive coil is less safe, or less resistance to corrosion.


Can you see any design differences between the two that would make the marine coil less likely to arc anywhere (thicker ceramic base maybe?)

and

Can you see any design differences between the two that would make the marine coil less likely to corrode? (brass nuts instead of steel maybe?)


electrically, there will be no difference between the two, so it will work, but you've gota make sure if it's going to last and if it's going to be safe.

 

[Maclin]

Re: Use car coil in boat? Mercruiser 3.0

This has been a popular subject lately....


http://forums.iboats.com/showpost.php?p=2094435&postcount=2

 

[rs2k]

Re: Use car coil in boat? Mercruiser 3.0

Using an automotive coil in a boat is safe, albeit illegal.

 

[arrkerr]

Re: Use car coil in boat? Mercruiser 3.0

Thanks! I don't know why I didn't see that thread when I searched. I picked up the coil, works great so far.

 

[Mark Hennessy]

Re: Use car coil in boat? Mercruiser 3.0

I had an 89 Merc. 5.7 for 14 years. I substituted a Chevrolet HEI ignition from a '79 truck, modified the advance to make it mechanical rather than vacuum. and changed the plug wires. My fuel usage reduced considerably, and it started and ran like a race car.

 

[mikeneal]

Re: Use car coil in boat? Mercruiser 3.0

Using an automotive coil in a boat is safe, albeit illegal.

The coil itself has nothing to do with ignition protection. Some marine coils are potted with gel vs. oil for vibration resistance but nothing to do with CG approval.