'64 Merc 650- Ignition conversion?

[matt167]

Is their a possibility of converting my '64 Merc 650's ignition from the KD-1 magneto setup to a more modern system, like a Thunderbolt ignition? or even a newer Mag setup?. I'v always liked the simplicity of Mags but with just about everything discontinued from Mercury, Oldmercs is the only supplier, and those prices are scary.. If it would be long term cost prohibitive, I would have to keep it the way it is, but with a basic tune up costing $300+ for the KD-1 mag, it might just be cost effective.

 

[79Glastron]

Re: '64 Merc 650- Ignition conversion?

The last versions of the 650 four used the Thunderbolt ignition driver set up. The ignition driver and switchbox was used in the 500 for several years after the 650 became a 3 cylinder.

 

[matt167]

Re: '64 Merc 650- Ignition conversion?

Will that setup work with the old block? As I understand, the block went to 62 CI after 1967 ( my block is marked "panther" if that makes a difference ). '63-'66 4cyls ran the KD-1 Magneto so that part did not follow thru to the Thunderbolt which started in '67 on the 500/650.. I'm also pretty sure this engine does not have a charging system, so that would be another piece. I know that those parts at least existed for the old motor, so if the Thunderbolt Mag/ distributor will fit the old block, I should be able to make it work if I can find the charging parts from another pre '67 4cyl.

 

[Maxz695]

Re: '64 Merc 650- Ignition conversion?

If the bolt on configuration is there which may be likely and the top endcap is the same or can be replaced to accomidate the trigger stator and flywheel then it shouldn,t be a problem the question is if someone can confirm this before buying the parts

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: '64 Merc 650- Ignition conversion?

If you think magneto parts are expensive, try pricing the electronic parts that would fit your motor!

Those magnetos are very simple. As long as the plastic parts aren't cracked or broken, you can rebuild them fairly easily and inexpensively. I replaced the upper and lower bearings in one of mine last summer, dressed the points, and replaced the condenser & wires for less than $50.00.

 

[matt167]

Re: '64 Merc 650- Ignition conversion?

I was thinking the Thunderbolt parts were probably expensive. The Magneto/ distributor looks like it's in good shape, but the engine was parked as a non runner 12+ years ago, so I'm assuming the worst. I plan on replacing the water pump, rebuild fuel pump, replace condensor, file points and then see if it will come to life. It has compression, so it's not blown. It was either a fuel or ignition problem that rendered it as a non runner.. If I have to replace much of the ignition system, the upgrade may be worth it.

 

[matt167]

Re: '64 Merc 650- Ignition conversion?

Bringing this back up. Is this everything I would need to convert to Thunderbolt? I see there is no timing belt pulley, but there are cheap parts distributors out there. 1970 1974 Mercury Outboard Ignition Driver Assembly 50 HP 500 4 Cyl 3144A4 | eBay
There is another couple distributors but they do not have the coil.
The other option is getting the distributor from a '66 650 and rebuilding it and keeping mine for spare parts. I even thought about just getting another outboard but I think I can revive the old 650 for less than that cost and have spare parts covered too.