Control Boxes--"Mark" unit with Merc 500??

[cheburashka]

I've been looking for a control box for a '69 500, serial #2626372. I've found a complete unit with single lever (no warmup lever) which was intended for a Mark 50-something. It's white, and shaped pretty much like an old Swing-A-Way can opener, if that helps. The plug is identical to the socket on the side of my motor. The only difference I can see is the lack of the extra lever for warming up.<br /><br />I've found it very hard to locate any control boxes with the plug still attached. Were there major internal changes to the motors between the "Mark" series and the later Thunderbolt ignition models? My major concern would be whether the ignition switch is one that grounds out the coils in the off position (early magneto) or applies power to the coils in the on position. Anyone know whether the basic electrical connections remained the same?<br /><br />Thanks for the help.

 

[cheburashka]

Re: Control Boxes--"Mark" unit with Merc 500??

I may have just figured this out. Looks like the controls go to a "dockbuster" direct reversing engine. I assume that these won't work with anything that has neutral, right?

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: Control Boxes--"Mark" unit with Merc 500??

Dockbuster controls will not work with yours.<br /><br />Keep an eye on eBay... they'll turn up...<br /><br />Have you checked locally? Can't just walk into a marina and ask for a set. You'll have to hang around a bit and seek out the guy with grease under his fingernails and a uniform shirt with a name patch over the pocket. Name is usually "Bob", "Butch", "Joe"... you get the idea. Usually older - old enough to have worked on the motors when they were just considered "late model", not "old". This is the guy who knows where the "good" stuff is. Will usually find it for you at his own pace, a pace that can be accelerated by offering a sixer of his favorite brew, or possibly a dozen donuts to help move things along. Avoid the clean cut kid at the service desk who just wants to sell you a new motor and wouldn't know a set of MerControls from his GameBoy controller. It helps if the dealership has been around for awhile and has accumulated some "junque" in a back shed or attic.<br /><br />- Scott

 

[cheburashka]

Re: Control Boxes--"Mark" unit with Merc 500??

We have one dealership. No Butch or Joe. Only Brandi and Brittni. The readily available staff consists of two "salesgirls" who know almost nothing about engines except that a new one brings in a lot of money. They keep the mechanics locked up in a little room in the back with no access to the customers. <br /><br />I'll keep checking Ebay. There are two full sets on there right now, and there's a long winter ahead.