1999 25hp What would be a Good Timing Light

dfwbmw

Cadet
Joined
Oct 25, 2004
Messages
12
Just like the subject said what would be a good timing light for this engine and other 2 stroke mercurys. I here there is a difference between 2 and 4 stroke lights. Thanks
 

DHPMARINE

Captain
Joined
Dec 16, 2003
Messages
3,688
Re: 1999 25hp What would be a Good Timing Light

I've got an older Snap on unit,but usually use the Merc one,as it runs on 'D' batteries,easy to use.Don't know of a 2 stroke 4 stroke issue unless maybe if you have a light that reads spark advance? But basic timing should still be basic timing.<br /><br />DHP
 

rodbolt

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 1, 2003
Messages
20,066
Re: 1999 25hp What would be a Good Timing Light

hello<br /> now it gets tricky. most late model two cyl small motors run a "waste" spark ign. means the coils fire every 180* of crank rotation. it can give funny things. as far as the flash goes it will flash every time it sparks. dont let the 180* out scare ya if you have a waste spark engine. most waste spark,not all. run a single coil with two high tension leads. if ya want a real nice light look at the ferret instruments one that has 2-4 stroke and tach and advance. its not low end but works well. the only quirk I have with mine since I bought it in 95 is it wont work in low light. dont know why but if its dark in the shop or engine room it wont flash :) .<br /> so it depends on how much you use it, how technical ya wanna get and are you going to use it on multiple applications. if its just for a 25 merc the 29 dollar cheepie works as well as the rest.
 

IBrokeMyFreakinNeck

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jan 3, 2004
Messages
142
Re: 1999 25hp What would be a Good Timing Light

Rodbolt,<br /><br />What light will I need to check the timing on my 1972 Merc 1150? Do I also need one of those "circle dial guage thingy's"?<br /><br />Bill
 

rodbolt

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 1, 2003
Messages
20,066
Re: 1999 25hp What would be a Good Timing Light

72merc<br /> the best you can do is study the relationship between piston motion and ign timing. its not vodoo but it does require attention to detail. I use a lght with an advance feature due to simplicity. once I use a dial indicator or a piston stop tool to make sure the pointer is actually correct to the marks on the flywheel the rest is just lazy. if you understand what is happening and why a 29 dollar light will work as well as the 200 dollar light I use. most outboards stamp the marks on the flywheel for advance. most inboards and I/O's do not.<br />for yor 1150 there is a procedure in the service manual to set it. but I still vereify it at 5000 RPM. so to answer your question just about any light will work<br />just make sure the mechaniacal reference on the poiter is correct
 
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