how to properly check timing on 97 merc 5.7

jayh

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 30, 2008
Messages
36
97 mercruiser 5.7
i have a overheat problem and i was gonna check the timing on it cause ive went thru most other options...
How do i do it? i have never done it before. what kind of timing light should i purchase does it need to have timing and advanced timing ?
 

HT32BSX115

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 8, 2005
Messages
10,083
Re: how to properly check timing on 97 merc 5.7

Howdy,

You just need a "regular" timing light. but I would also start with another known gage to verify that you really are overheating...

If it's a 97 it's probably a Thunderbolt V ignition system?

It will have to be put in "BASE" mode before you check the timing.

You set the timing at idle rpm 10* BTDC while in the base mode. The service manual indicates how to put it in base mode.

Here's the specs. http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Techbk/techcov.pdf

There should be a wire hanging off your distributor. It's PUR/WHT in color. It may have a little rubber or plastic plug in the end to insulate the connector when not being used.

You ground it which places the ignition into "Base Timing Mode" Then set the timing the "normal" way. You can also adjust the carb idle mixture and idle rpm too.

Don't forget to lift the wire from ground after you're done.

The service manual outlines the procedure. Evidently that service manual is not on Boatfix. If you don't have one it would be a good investment if you're planning to do your own work or you want to know what's going on when someone else does it.


Now having said all that, timing is not frequently the cause of overheats in a boat engine. You might want to check the raw pump, and raw water system for debris from a previous raw water pump disintegration or other source and the pump itself for problems. Also check for good water thru the manifolds/risers, thermostat, and circ pump etc.



Maybe you checked all that stuff...


Cheers,


Rick
 
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