85hp idle

craigman

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 14, 2009
Messages
141
Fellas,
i need to lower the idle on my 1974 Merc 85hp.
I noticed when i advance the throttle, it also advances the distributor.
So what would be the procedure on lowering the idle?

Thanks!
Craig
 

shankforce

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Sep 9, 2008
Messages
114
Re: 85hp idle

You need to do a full link and sync provided in the manual from merc there are plenty of posts on link and sync here. I have had problems like that in the past sometimes they never idle where you want them to do to reeds and other problems that take a little more than part swaping and screw turning.
 

craigman

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 14, 2009
Messages
141
Re: 85hp idle

Thanks!
did a little searching. Looks like it's quite a job to do.
More reading to do!

Craig
 

Moody Blue

Captain
Joined
May 24, 2004
Messages
3,136
Re: 85hp idle

No not really. Looks alot more complicated on paper than it really is. Read it through a few times then have at it.

You'll probably end up going through it two or three times before you're satisfied.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,549
Re: 85hp idle

Craig, There is an idle stop set screw above the distributor. That sets idle speed. After you check link and sync, set that screw so motor idles at 850 RPM or so. Adjust throttle cable to push throttle against stop screw.
 

shankforce

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Sep 9, 2008
Messages
114
Re: 85hp idle

I would set the idle in gear first to see where you are at you have to do this on the water I am thinking between 600 and 700 rpm some where. Then read your idle rpm to see where you are at.
 

craigman

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 14, 2009
Messages
141
Re: 85hp idle

the boat is new to me.
Idle is pretty high and i'm afraid to put it in gear untill i get the idle down.
Sounds like it's idling around 1300 rpm's.
As soon as i get some good weater around here i'll check it out.
thanks again guys!

Craig
 
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