Ignition problem on mercruiser 3.0L?

pmgrape

Cadet
Joined
Apr 14, 2002
Messages
29
I have a 1988 mercruiser 3.0L. I tried starting it for the first time since my local marina winterized it last winter. Needless to say it wouldn't start. I saw good fuel flowing into the carb. and could even smell gas when she became flooded. <br />I have a breaker point ingition system. I went through checking plug and coil wires, making sure they were connected. I cleaned the plugs, even though they were brand new with the winterization. I read in my Clymer manual to check the coil for spark by removing it from the distributor and holding it 1/2" from a ground( I used a bolt on my engines head) and cranking the engine. No spark. I took the coil to a local auto parts store and he tested resistance and told me it was fine. Distributor cap looks good and I cleaned contacts. Points look brand new and properly set.<br />I'm stumped. Could it be the condenser, which I replaced last spring? Could the coil still be the culprit, and if so how do I test it? Could it be plug and/or coil wires, and if so is there a way check them without replacing them?<br />The engine turns over great and I have a brand new West Marine duel purpose battery.<br />Any help would be greatly appreciated.<br />Thank you <br />Brian
 

pmgrape

Cadet
Joined
Apr 14, 2002
Messages
29
Re: Ignition problem on mercruiser 3.0L?

I almost forgot, would it be worth my time to replace my ingition system with the electronic system my local parts guy showed me( I believe it costs about $100), and if I bought this kit, how hard is it to install?<br />Thanks again<br />Brian
 

snapperbait

Vice Admiral
Joined
Aug 20, 2002
Messages
5,754
Re: Ignition problem on mercruiser 3.0L?

I would start by verifying with a volt meter, that you have voltage to the positive terminal of the coil with the ignition in the "on" position.. Should be about 10.5 volts at the coil..
 

pmgrape

Cadet
Joined
Apr 14, 2002
Messages
29
Re: Ignition problem on mercruiser 3.0L?

I checked with my multimeter and do have voltage on to the coil. About 11 volts
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
70,939
Re: Ignition problem on mercruiser 3.0L?

The Ele. Conv. is the way to Go.... <br />Remove the points,+ condenser... Put the ele. trigger in,+ your ready to go..... Very Easy Swap...<br />Do you have power to the points ???<br />If you power the coil, then ground it out, It'll fire...
 
Top