setting timing on a 1987 85 horse force

[bubba46923]

can anyone tell me how to check and set the timing on this motor it is a 1987 force 85 horse outboard

[roscoe]

Sorry, but too much damage can be done if not done correctly.
Your best bet is to buy a Clymer's or a factory service manual, and follow the steps for your specific model.

If you don't want to by a manual, check one out of the library.

I know, not what you wanted to hear.

[Frank Acampora]

RRitt is correct about damage; advancing spark too far can cause pre-ignition, detonation, and melted pistons.

But, if you just want to check timing without changing it, use an inductive timing light on the top plug wire. The flywheel has a mark for TDC that matches a mark on the front plate at the top of the manifold or a mark cast on the top of the manifold itself. Usually timing is 0 degrees plus/minus 2 at idle and I think by 87 they had reduced timing at wide open throttle to 30 degrees before TDC. There will be a group of three lines on the flywheel several inches away from the single line. The center line or the longest line of this group is the correct timing mark. The important timing setting is the WOT timing.

If you decide you need to change timing, get the manual and go by it.