OMC Cobra ignition problems?

[briwill]

I've got a 1990 open bow with a 5.0 Ford OMC Cobra. It has a points type ignition with the OMC "shift assist" I've had the carb rebuilt, new points, cap, rotor, plugs, etc. The engine is very tight and has low hours (200) but it is hard to start and appears to be flooding. Also, yesterday it died on me twice while running at approx. 3500 rpm. No warning, just quit. I suspect that maybe the coil is dying and has a weak spark? Regardless, I'd like to upgrade to a electronic ignition (Pertronix). Has anyone out there done this with the "shift assist"? I understand a small circuit must be made with diods/resisters but not sure if this will work. Any other ideas why my engine is quitting?

 

[Coors]

Re: OMC Cobra ignition problems?

I would start with the "carb appears to be flooding"
Start with the obvious.

 

[thumpar]

Re: OMC Cobra ignition problems?

I just did the pertronix ignitor II and flamethrower II on my merc 2.5l. In the instructions it had the circuit for the OMC. If I remember right it is just 2 diodes inline with one of the existing wires. You might want to look at the pertronix's website. They have some of the installation manuals in PDF form.

 

[Don S]

Re: OMC Cobra ignition problems?

but it is hard to start and appears to be flooding.

Why do you say it "Appears" to be flooding, is it, or not. What's it doing that makes you think it's flooding. Smoke, smell???????

 

[jspringator]

Re: OMC Cobra ignition problems?

My 89 OMC Cobra ignition has been extremely reliable. Until my recent longblock installation (due to improper winterization) I changed plugs, points and condenser one time. I don't plan on making a change. It might be carb rebuild time for you.

 

[Coors]

Re: OMC Cobra ignition problems?

appears to be flooding.
any ignition in the world won't help that.

 

[briwill]

Re: OMC Cobra ignition problems?

I don't think the carb is bad since I had it rebuilt last year. It feels like it's flooding due to a weak spark and I notice a gas smell when it won't fire. I guess it's possible it was rebuilt incorrectly but I figured it can't hurt to upgrade the ignition and see what happens.