Merc resistor wire question + another.

[Boomyal]

I'm asking these two questions for a good friend.

How do you identify the resistor wire on a 1986 140 hp 4cyl Alpha one setup? The friend is trying to put a pertronix one on it and it didn't seem to work the first time around. I think he needs to bypass the resistor wire. Should he just isolate it and run a full 12 volt keyed line to the positive side of the coil? Also, unlike OMC ford, I think that merc ran two wires to the Positive side of the coil. One being the resisted feed, the other was the momentary starter solenoid full 12 v start phase feed.


The other question is, what needs adjusted when the motor dies when you shift into reverse? It is currently a consistant thing with this boat.

 

[elpaso]

Re: Merc resistor wire question + another.

There are 2 wires going to coil positive. The purple with yellow tracer is the momentary from starter. The solid purple is the resistor wire.
It goes into the wire harness near the electric choke. Remove it and wiredirect to ignition 12 volt.
If you have been unable to set shift linkage to prevent engine from dying when shifting, shift cable may need to be replaced.
I have a wiring diagram if needed - do you have a Delco or Mando alternator.

 

[Boomyal]

Re: Merc resistor wire question + another.

thanks elpaso, I'll find out about the alternator and holler back if I need the wiring diagram.