maybe problem on sunk boat found

[727Driver]

I followed the clymer manual tune up check on the distributor. It says that the rotor should be twisted clockwise to see if it quickly returns to the orginal spot.<br /><br />I could not move the rotor at all. Is this the problem or is the Thunderbolt ign. not supposed to move? Help!

 

[kdmiller8251]

Re: maybe problem on sunk boat found

Usually there is a screw on the Distributor that you have to loosen up so you can twist it to adjust your timing...<br /><br />Tallman

 

[727Driver]

Re: maybe problem on sunk boat found

I was trying to check the timing advance on just the rotor inside the distributor. Is is supposed to be able to move at all?

 

[SlowlySinking]

Re: maybe problem on sunk boat found

727Driver, if the manual says twist the rotor and see if it returns to the original position then you have a mechancial spark advance system, there may be a vacuum advance system also, but check this first, if it doesn't move at all remove the rotor and you will see two kidney shaped (more or less) advance weights and some small springs and from the sound of it lots of rust and corrosion that prevents it from moving, apply some rust remover or WD-40 and let is sit a while, twist it and get it moving freely. That should fix it. Good luck.

 

[johnkc]

Re: maybe problem on sunk boat found

727, the rotor is not able to move on a mercruiser thunderbolt 4 distributer .wich is what you should have if it is original to the engine.

 

[SlowlySinking]

Re: maybe problem on sunk boat found

johnkc, so what we have here with this engine distributor seems to be the same problem car owners have when they use a Chiltons Repair Manual, it covers so many years and models you may never know for sure what repair information actually applies to your car, my Clymers Boat Manual is just about as useful, covers too many years, too many models, and much of the information is too vague, for many purposes it's close to useless. There oughta be a law that original manuals be attached to the boat, car, computer, etc. where they can't be removed.

 

[Bondo]

Re: maybe problem on sunk boat found

I Prefer the Factory Tech Manuals.....<br />But some of the factories are abit Greedy....<br />Thank G*d for Ebay....<br />As to the issue at hand, The T-boltIV is advanced eletronicly... You should Not be able to twist the rotor on the T-boltIV.... You could Test it with a Timming Light... It should be in Full advance by less than 3500rpms.... I've Never had a problem with the T-boltIV.... I don't know....

 

[denniz]

Re: maybe problem on sunk boat found

If you have a thunderbolt ignition then your advance is controlled by the module. Usually mounted on the exhaust elbow. Stamped in the mounting bracket is the degree of advance your module has and usually a engine size or part number.YOU DONT have vacuum advance or cintrifical weights to advance your timing If you have a thunderbolt.Take that Peice of Sh-t Clymer book and burn it....

 

[727Driver]

Re: maybe problem on sunk boat found

Okay, I think I am up to speed on the timing advance on the T-bolt ign. I need to check the timing with a light because that module on the exhaust elbow is $325. And if that is not the problem I don't want to randomly just change a part.