How do i get the rotor off in the distributor cap on a Mercruiser v6?

GJK0807

Recruit
Joined
Jun 5, 2010
Messages
1
I have a Mercruiser V-6 with thunderbolt ignition systmem, I changed the spark plugs and want to change the distributor cap and rotor, but cannot figure out how to get the rotor off. Does anyone know how to get this rotor out? (looks like this - http://www.sterndrives.com/precisionparts/thunderbolt_tuneup_kits.html )

Also, after I changed the plugs I have noticed something new - the boat does not seem to have the same power during exceleration from a standstill. The boat takes longer to plane out but does get up to top speed and performs like it should after it gets going. Could this be related to the distributor?

Thanks for any help
 

Bifflefan

Commander
Joined
May 27, 2009
Messages
2,933
Re: How do i get the rotor off in the distributor cap on a Mercruiser v6?

Should just pull off.

If not, look for a set screw, but it should just pull off.
 

cr2k

Captain
Joined
Mar 19, 2009
Messages
3,730
Re: How do i get the rotor off in the distributor cap on a Mercruiser v6?

Those get stuck often. Just man up and give it a tug. You may have to pry it, but make sure you are doing no damage to anything when/if you do this.
 

rodbolt

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 1, 2003
Messages
20,066
Re: How do i get the rotor off in the distributor cap on a Mercruiser v6?

if its the thunderbolt system that uses the trigger wheel bolted to the rotor use a heat gun on the rotor and even then sometimes I have to pry them off, carefully clean all the old loctite and rust from the shaft and remember to loctite it back on just like the book says,however I usually wont remove the distributer and turn it upside down while reassembling.
 

liquidlew

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Feb 14, 2008
Messages
304
Re: How do i get the rotor off in the distributor cap on a Mercruiser v6?

I had to cut mine off with a dremel. Didn't put any loctite on it whe putting the new one on, no problems in 2 years. Don't know about your power issue, how's your timing?
 

sethjon

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jun 8, 2010
Messages
692
Re: How do i get the rotor off in the distributor cap on a Mercruiser v6?

The rotor should just pull off. Use both hands and pull with a steady pressure. It will come off. If you don't replace it be surre to scrape the end off if any discoloration or corrosion. Also check inside the cap itself to make sure ALL the contacts are clean. If you have any doubt clean or replace. As far as replacing the plugs and seeing a difference in power, the only yhring that might make a difference is if the gap is way off.
 

Mike250

Seaman
Joined
Dec 9, 2008
Messages
69
Re: How do i get the rotor off in the distributor cap on a Mercruiser v6?

I had to use the heat gun method on mine. It had been installed from the factory with lock tight.
 
Top