1997 Mercruiser Timing mark question

[jamesd_williams]

I have a 1997 Sea Ray 185 with a 4.3 engine, 2 Bl carb. The timing mark on the timing cover of the 4.3 has a single V shaped indentation. I presume this is the TDC mark...

Do I need a timing light that shows advance to time the motor?... I put the Thunderbolt 5 ignition into base timing mode, but there is no mark for 8 degrees on the timing cover.

If I need a timing light that allows for advance, what's a good brand, and do I set the light for 8 degrees and set that up to the (TDC) mark on the timing cover?

I am used to automotive timing covers... with marks for 0 to 12 degrees.

Thanks for your help!
Jim

[Don S]

An advance timing light is helpful, but not necessary. You can get degree tapes from speed shops that just go on the vibration dampner. They have different tapes for different diameters, so measure yours first.