1961 merc60 6hp spark check

[cbfd181]

How do I check to see if I'm getting spark? I have replace the points, coil, and condenser. When I ohm out the spark plug wire through the coil i get a nice 7.44. When I put the cover on to pull the motor through I no longer have access to the plugs.

 

[emckelvy]

Re: 1961 merc60 6hp spark check

Pull the plugs out of the powerhead; slap the plugs back in the plug wire boots, and lay them on the block so their outer shells are grounded.

Give the flywheel a stout clockwise spin with your hands and if the plugs spark with a purplish/blue-ish arc, you should have enough spark energy to run the motor.

If the spark is more reddish/orange-ish, will probably be too weak to run.

HTH.......ed

 

[cbfd181]

Re: 1961 merc60 6hp spark check

...And if still no spark? I have replaced and gapped points. New coils and condensers.

 

[emckelvy]

Re: 1961 merc60 6hp spark check

Double-check coil installation, make sure they're wired correctly.

Don't know if your motor has a kill switch, but if it's bad it may be killing spark.

Points should be degreased and gapped to .020".

Check the flywheel magnet(s), they may be too weak to generate spark. Pretty uncommon problem but something to check.

One last thought, you may be able to get a rope wrapped around the flywheel to get a good yank on it, going faster might get you that spark.

Or, adapt an electric drill motor with a socket and spin the motor over with that setup. With the plugs out, it should turn more than fast enough to be generating sparks.

 

[cbfd181]

Re: 1961 merc60 6hp spark check

thanks for the help. Got spark this morning just need to get new fuel tank to see if grandpa will run. I wasnt thinkin clear and still had the other spark plug in and wasn't spinning fast enough. beautiful blue spark. I can't believe this motor was in the attic and forgot about. still has bright white paint on the cylinders with the inspection sticker on them. Any idea on what I can expect for top speed with this on a 14' aluminum v-bottom?