GM Delco Distributor - Ok for Marine Use?

[Gogonova]

I have a new blueprinted Delco points distributor (ACCEL) from a Small Block Chevy project. I brought the distributor along with a Pertronic electronic coversion kit and flamethrower coil but never used it. If I change the cap to a marine version, could I use the distributor as a replacement for the Mallory unit in my 1982 Mercruiser 898 (305 CID)? Thanks

 

[mylesm260]

Re: GM Delco Distributor - Ok for Marine Use?

There are two thoughts to consider here.

#1 is it safe

and

#2 is it legal


If the unit is 100% sealed (with the marine cap), than it is safe.

The only way it would be "legal" is if there a production marine motor that used the exact same OEM part. (same part number)

Depends how far you want to go to please the USCG gods....

 

[bruceb58]

Re: GM Delco Distributor - Ok for Marine Use?

It's probably not marine buy maybe you are lucky. Also, who knows if the advance curve is set for what you need. You would need to check that out as well...make sure it doesn't advance too soo.

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: GM Delco Distributor - Ok for Marine Use?

If it doesn't say SAE J1171 on it, it's not marine and therefore not safe.
Get a marine unit.

It probably uses vacuum advance and automotive weights/springs which doesn't work on a boat anyway.