Electronic Ignition Upgrade????

[philtheskipper]

I have a 1979 120 mercruiser engine. It has the original ignition system with the points and all. <br /> My question is should I replace it with a new electronic ignition system or just give the current system a tune up, new points, wires, cap, etc. <br /> Will the electronic ignition perform any better or does it just eliminate having to set the point gap every now and then?<br /> Can't wait to get the boat out this spring!

 

[jwhite]

Re: Electronic Ignition Upgrade????

If it was me i would switch to the electronic mainly because its a lot less maintenance (no points to clean every time it sits for a while). If your distributor is GM then the conversion kit is $138.60, if its prestolite then its $130.61. Well worth the money in my opinion.

 

[Fouled Plug]

Re: Electronic Ignition Upgrade????

Convert it! My brother has a Mercruiser 470 that runs great, but after tossing the points for a Pertronix igniter, it runs even better. Faster starts, smoother idle. Well worth it!

 

[12Footer]

Re: Electronic Ignition Upgrade????

It is worth the conversion, absolutely. A fisherman I know of,swears by it,whereas, he used to swear AT it.

 

[kcodd]

Re: Electronic Ignition Upgrade????

To whites marine:<br />This topic is of intrest to me also as I have a 1971 mercruiser 140 4 cyl I/O with a old points style distb. Where can I find online the kit you discribed for my GM motor?<br /> KC...

 

[jwhite]

Re: Electronic Ignition Upgrade????

Outlaw<br />If you have a credit card i can send you one next week. Just let me know which distributor you have. Both prices include shipping.<br /><br />whitesmarine@tds.net

 

[Trent]

Re: Electronic Ignition Upgrade????

Check this link out for a conversion.web page

 

[philtheskipper]

Re: Electronic Ignition Upgrade????

Well, that settles it! I'll convert to the new electronic system. Thanks for the advice everyone!

 

[philtheskipper]

Re: Electronic Ignition Upgrade????

One more question... Why is there such a big differance in price between differant conversion kits? The one TRENT pointed out is $70 but White's Marine sells one for $130. Just wondering if it's the brand name or are they differant type systems?