How do I correctly time a Mercruiser 260 while in the water?

[cantaris]

Ok so I would like to know the best/ correct procedure for setting timing on a 1982 Mercruiser 260 350cid engine while in the water. Engine has Pertronix Ignitor electronic module and Pertronix Flame Thrower coil. I have a timing light with the advance feature. Any advice is appreciated. I think this is part of my Low WOT RPM in another post.

 

[Bondo]

Re: How do I correctly time a Mercruiser 260 while in the water?

Ayuh,... Havin' the boat in the water don't changin' anything,...

Hook up yer light, clean off the timin' tab so's ya can see it, 'n Time it...

 

[cantaris]

Re: How do I correctly time a Mercruiser 260 while in the water?

Ayuh,... Havin' the boat in the water don't changin' anything,...

Hook up yer light, clean off the timin' tab so's ya can see it, 'n Time it...

Thanks Bond-o was kinda hoping for a little more detail, especially when setting advance. Or even just setting idle timing. manual says under load but does that mean in gear or just neutral and set 8 DBTDC to 650 - 700 RPM?

 

[Don S]

Re: How do I correctly time a Mercruiser 260 while in the water?

You just set the timing to 8? BTDC at idle rpm.
Advance timing should take care of itself, assuming the advance weights and springs in the distributor are in working order.