question about (2517724) 1969 Mercury MERC 500

[buddhapi]

I got a great deal last weekend on what I believe is a 1969 MERC 500. my question: is this a magneto or distributor ignition system. it has a box in front of the carbs with wires going to it. blue, red, white, and green. one green wire goes to the coil, and the other coil wire is grounded. I wish I could have taken pictures when it was light out. it has the old style red letter cover, and doesn't say Thunderbolt anywhere on it.
problem; NO SPARK....go figure.

 

[schematic]

Re: question about (2517724) 1969 Mercury MERC 500

Its a conventional CDI system if it looks like this.....

http://www.marineengine.com/parts/m...629-usa/flywheel-ignition-coil-and-switch-box

 

[buddhapi]

Re: question about (2517724) 1969 Mercury MERC 500

hold'er boys! I see it DOES say Thunderbolt on that front cover you remove to unhook the wrap around cover.