E130txAOR timing issue but runs

[E130 chad]

hello to all! have a 1995 Evinrude 130 that I recently purchased. Before trying to get it to fire I did some checks and has perfect compression, new plugs, new fuel, deleted VRO with spec pump, Cleaned carbs full tune up and got it running pretty quick. I went to link and sync based off the manual and as I was checking idle timing with my timing light, the timing was 180 degrees out. The timing pointer was showing bare flywheel so I pointed my light at the back of the engine and there my timing marks were. What the heck. It was running fine, no backfiring. Firing on all cylinders.
My thought is that if I’m actually 180 degrees out it would be running like crap but maybe I’m wrong. I checked coils making sure they were routed right. Anyone have any ideas what I’m doing wrong? I’m on the #1 plug wire and it’s not hanging down on the cylinder beneath it so I know it’s not picking up the #3 plug wire.

 

[Chris1956]

Two cycle motors can run backwards pretty well. Set the top piston to top dead center using a screwdriver (or piston stop tool) and see where the timing marks align. I think you should get a factory service manual, as most shops will not want to work on that old of a motor.

 

[E130 chad]

Two cycle motors can run backwards pretty well. Set the top piston to top dead center using a screwdriver (or piston stop tool) and see where the timing marks align. I think you should get a factory service manual, as most shops will not want to work on that old of a motor.

Thanks for the reply! I’m a complete idiot and have been using a “4 stroke only” timing light. completely slipped my mind. I was so confused because when I went through and set TDC the pointer was dead on but thought I had an electrical issue when my spark timing was 180 out. Sorry for the post.