Merc 400 45hp - spark plug wire removal

[lindy46]

I got my factory service manual which covers my 1961 4 cylinder merc 400. I looked in it to find out how to remove the spark plug wires from the distributor cap - it gave three methods:
1. Screw in and out
2. Pull out
3. Held in by screws.
Anyone know which is the method of attachment on this motor? I don't see any screws in the dizzy cap which can be removed to loosen the wires. So do they just pull out, or screw out?
Thanks!

 

[new2mercs]

Re: Merc 400 45hp - spark plug wire removal

Lindy,

I don't have a definite answer for you, but on my '58/'59 there are setscrews on the _underside_ of the dist. cap... .

 

[corm]

Re: Merc 400 45hp - spark plug wire removal

Hi,

Option #3
The screws are inside the distributor cap.
While you have the distributor off reset the points .08-.010 thou.

 

[lindy46]

Re: Merc 400 45hp - spark plug wire removal

Thanks guys! Another question - the wires are in good condition other than the boot ends which go on the plugs. Are the wires solid core like on an Evinrude? Can I just cut off the old boot and add a new spring pin and boot or is it more like an automotive type wire?

 

[corm]

Re: Merc 400 45hp - spark plug wire removal

Hi,

All outboard plug wires are stranded wire. So you can cut off the ends if you have enough wire. I usually nip them off where the cap spring wire goes through the plug wire.

 

[lindy46]

Re: Merc 400 45hp - spark plug wire removal

Thanks - job is done and I have good spark with the new cap springs/boots.