Having problems getting my 71 merc running
its a 165 inline 6 thats only firing on 3 cyl
If that's a distributor model the only reason that it won't fire 3 cyls. are plugs and wires or a damaged cap/rotor. From the confusing wording I'm guessing it's a 1965 dual point/coil system; the next dual system is a Tbolt ADI which came later than 1971. Post the serial Nr. or pictures.
Before we move this around anymore - Is this an outboard or a Mercruiser? Part of your problem description points to outboard and part points to Mercruiser.
If it is a Mercruiser it still uses point ignition so my earlier post is partly accurate; but there could be valve issues or a gasket problem. I worked on one that ran fine until it warmed up then a crack in the head opened up and doused 2 cyls. Owner did his own "winterizing".
