85' merc 170 q's

[liplifter]

I traded for a larson 19' delta with a merc 170.The issues I am having is #1 the boat runs fine with a fresh battery but looking at it there is no alternator,there is a groove on the balancer pulley but does not look worn at all like there has ever been a belt on it.#2 my mechanic said the balancer pulley where the belt would go looks odd due to it has 1/2 in holes all the way around it.Any alternator recomendations?and is the 170 the same as a 470?Thanks

 

[Don S]

Re: 85' merc 170 q's

The 170 (aka 470 style engine) has a rotor/stator type charging system like an outboard, located under the front pulley. They don't work very well, and the parts are VERY expensive, and some are NLA.
When it fails, most add an alternator kit and convert to a conventional alternator system.
If you head up to the adults only sticky (First post in this forum) you can download the OEM service manual which will explain the system. IT's manual #8

 

[liplifter]

Re: 85' merc 170 q's

Thank you kind sir.