2002 Mercruiser 5 liter MPI Distributor Timing

[dubs283]

Vortec intake screws are set WAY lower than non-vortec.

Yes, mpi is 18 lb/ft in increments and specific sequence

 

[joedm2000]

And are you sure that the intake bolts were torqued properly and you don’t have a vacuum leak?

I was very careful in torqueing the intake bolts. Followed the Mercruiser Shop Manual word for word. Thanks....I will check for a vacuum leak. I have not checked that.

 

[Lou C]

That's a good point. And be aware that Vortec intake screws are set WAY lower than non-vortec. I've seen more than one engine messed up because the intake screws were over tightened. (leads to leaks in the gaskets...)

Chris.

exactly the gaskets are very different and more prone to damage from over torquing. the pre vortecs rarely if ever leak...

 

[joedm2000]

Thanks, issue with that is if the damper notch can be a few degrees off. To make sure its a true TDC would need a stop bolt or a micrometer probing the top of the piston.

Your motor is running and with that as @Fun Times mentioned in the other thread, loosen the Dizzy and ever so slightly more it just a few degrees (really small amount) and lock it back down. Take it out and see how it does. If it gets better but still not right, try to go a hair more. If it gets worst go the other direction

The SB below is how to adjust and if need be to make a cheap tool to get the timing exact

Got out on the water tonight and it appears the issue was timing. I did also replace the plugs, distributor cap and rotor to be safe, but moving the distributor around fixed the problem. Thanks!!