1973 Merc 500 Wire ID needed.

[dkhntr04]

I am finishing a rebuild project on my 1973 Merc 500 with Thunderbolt ignition. I started this project a year ago and a move and new job delayed finishing it until now.

The wire in the picture below is left over after reassembling my outboard. It is about 5.5" long and was organized with the parts from the starter solenoid area of the outboard. The materials and workmanship exactly match the rest of the wire on the outboard so I strongly believe it is OEM. Knowing my work habits I would have gotten rid of it during disassembly if it was not.

I have been using the wiring diagram from the Mercury factory service manual, but do not see it on there. This diagram is identical to the one in the manual:

http://www.maxrules.com/oldmercs/Wiring/1966ona/26A.jpg

I have triple checked the wiring on the motor and it matches the diagram perfectly. I also had a friend check it independently and he reports that it matches the diagram perfectly. I am at a loss for where it belongs. I currently have a no-spark situation that i am working my way through diagnosing and I feel this wire may be part of it.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[corm]

Re: 1973 Merc 500 Wire ID needed.

Hi,
It looks like the wire Merc used to ground the cowl suports.
It probably goes on the studs on either side of the rubber supports
that the cowl is mounted to. Merc needed to ground everthing.