mercruiser 160 distributor

[see sick]

I had a guy tell me that the HEI distributor on my Mercruiser 160 was "illegal" as it could cause a spark and possibly a fire. He also said that the engine cut out would not work with the current set up and should go back to the original distributor/coil package.<br />Does this sound right or was he blowing smoke??

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: mercruiser 160 distributor

If it is not marine rated, it could be illegal. Yes it could cause a fire (lack of spark suppression)& gas fumes in bilge = BOOM!, if it does not have a marine rating, and is dangerous if it is an auto model. It might fit just fine, but don't use it! IMHO the guy gave you good advice.....JK

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: mercruiser 160 distributor

That goes for any electric part on your engine, starter, alternator, etc.......Marine rated only!....JK

 

[see sick]

Re: mercruiser 160 distributor

Thanks J.k!!<br />I appreciate the info. The former owner was running this set up for a while now, but I will take the advice. <br />The cut out switch the guy was talking about must be the Reverse Interlock Switch that I see in my wiring schematics.<br />How exactly does that work or what does it do?

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: mercruiser 160 distributor

Reverse lockout switch? Prevents you from raising your drive while in reverse...Oh, he's probably talking about the shift interrupt switch......This switch grounds out the ignition system while shifting into,out of gear and should definitly be hooked up at all times....JK