Automotive parts?

[KazooTom]

I have a 1989 Sea ray 4.2 2 barrel Mercuriser alpha one engine in a 18.5 ft. This motor has the thunder bolt ignition system. I have just replaced the fuel filter and plugs (NGK). I am about to replace the plug wires, cap and rotor. Can I use automotive parts?

 

[Don S]

Re: Automotive parts?

Automotive wires are usually too short. They also have the wrong ends on them for the cap.
See if the autoparts store carries wires for marine engines. NAPA carries the Sierra brand of marine parts.

 

[cr2k]

Re: Automotive parts?

Also an automotive cap won't fit the distributor if it is a true marine unit. If it is not it needs to be unless you have an open engine.

 

[04fxdwgi]

Re: Automotive parts?

On the cap and rotor- No, you need to use marine grade components.

On the wires- Yes. JEGs has 8.5 MM silicone wires that are made to the same standards as marine wires. I did verify by contacting JEGs for their wire manufacturing specs and they stated they are manufactured to SAE J2031 standards (same as marine requirements). I can forward you the e-mail. You can pick and choose lengths, end types and boot types / angles. Almost too many choices. I chose the ones for engines with headers and they were plenty long enough for my 454. (plus, they were under 40 bux for the set)

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Automotive parts?

IMHO spend the bucks for OEM Mercruiser wires. They will fit perfectly and last a looooong time. Should be about $55, that's about $5 a year, about the cost of one gallon of gas.