Recent content by Chris1956

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    Merc 200hp timming questions.

    Gee, a Merc service manual is in order, I would think. Merc has a specific link and synch procedure. I have tried to give you the Readers Digest form of it. 0-9* ATDC is the spec for idle timing of most Mercs with ADI ignition. The key is to get the idle pickup timing in the center of the...
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    Merc 200hp timming questions.

    Gee, remove all spark plugs. Now set the timing pointer to .462" BTDC decal reading with the #1 piston at a measured .462" BTDC. When that is done, install #1 spark plug. Install timing light. Crank motor and advance throttle until timing is 0-9*ATDC. Adjust throttle arm linkage so...
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    Fourwinns doors shut

    I looked at a used 21 foot Four Winns some years ago. It had V-P sterndrive power. I did not consider it to be something special. I made a reasonable offer on it, but the owner wanted full price the week before labor day, after it sat all summer. I declined and bought an OB powered 21...
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    Merc 200hp timming questions.

    Doesn't the setting of the timing pointer involve backing the #1 piston down from TDC to .462 inches BTDC? Your timing decal should have that .462" BTDC on it. Just setting the piston to TDC gives a few degrees of error. That is why I suggested a caliper or steel ruler, as you can add .462...
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    West Marine going out of business... and I can't think of anything I need!

    West marine was some sort of conglomeration of Bliss Marine and another chain. When Bliss first started they were the first boating store to be independent of a marine or boat/motor dealer, at least that was how it looked to me. As such they had a niche business, and were usually cheaper than...
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    Merc 200hp timming questions.

    You might check that max spark advance spec. Carb motors w/o timing advance modules want 21* or 20* max spark advance. I would recommend a Merc service manual, rather than deriving a timing set procedure on your own.
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    Merc 200hp timming questions.

    You can use a caliper or even a steel ruler to set the timing pointer to TDC. I would expect the timing procedure to be the same as any generic Merc V6. Generally you will want 0-9*ATDC for idle pickup timing and 21*BTDC for max spark advance.
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    Merc 200hp timming questions.

    A service manual and the year of the motor would help.
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    suzuki prop vs turning point 4 blade prop; looking for advise

    I have run an alum TP Hustler on my speed boat with good results. This year I replaced it with a SS Michigan Apollo (cost 4-5 times as much), of the same pitch. The results are about the same. Not sure I made a wise investment for performance, however, a speedboat needs looks too and the...
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    Tachometer/Regulator Question

    Use an ohmmeter to test the wire between the VR and the tach. Alternatively, test the tach wire at the VR, with engine running on a flusher, for some AC voltage. I would expect only a few volts AC to run the tach, but start on a 100VAC scale so you don't burn out the meter. However, the...
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    Bass boat trim authority sucks in mid range

    Heavy steering can also be caused by the motor mounts giving too much, binding up the midsection swivel movement.
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    1984 Mercury Black Max 150 hard start and wont idle.

    You might check to see if the choke is working, however, it is usually only needed when the motor is first started that day. On my '93, a solenoid opens when the choke button is pushed. The solenoid lets fuel from the top carb drain into the throats of the two other carbs.
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    Mercury 850 85hp. Good engine or stay away?

    I am not sure I understand your post. Generally, if the rectifier is connected to the 2 stator wires, but not ground or +12VDC, it will blow.
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    suzuki prop vs turning point 4 blade prop; looking for advise

    I have found TP props are pretty good. Your rig looks pretty light, vs my fiberglass 21 footer. I had a 150HP Johnny and ran the 15"P TP 4 blade with the two different blades combo. I think it is an advantage, but minimal. I think I would run a 3 blade prop with your boat. It should give...
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    Bass boat trim authority sucks in mid range

    Gee, does that boat have a pad? Some don't. Your RPM is a bit low, based on experience, although the prop pitch sounds right. Run on plane at cruise or faster and see what the antiventilation plate is doing. It should be on top of the water. If not, maybe raise the motor 3/4".
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