Replacing 1978 merccontrol with 6 pin

[Donnyb83]

Hey guys I was wondering if someone can help. I have a 1978 mercury with merc controls. The wire harness has some wires looking sketchy, was going to replace a couple of wires but instead I want a new harness and controls. I don’t see any 6pin controls. How can I turn my 6pin into an 8 etc. also what controls should I get. I replaced the throttle/shift cables about two years ago and believe they are gen1 cables. Both sides have barrels. Anyway someone can send me links to everything I need or help me out. It’s my first boat and I’m still working on it lol. Any help is very much appreciated! Thank you!

 

[Chris1956]

The maxrules web site will have wiring diagrams for your motor and the newer wiring harnesses.

The newer wiring harnesses will pull power trim wires and an overheat signal to the MerControl, which your's does not.

Some 1978 Mercs still had battery powered CDI ignition. Which motor do you have?

 

[Donnyb83]

I have a 1978 mercury 800 80hp 4cylinder. The serial number is the lower one when u check for parts like448000-533000 something like that. How do I know if it’s battery powered ignition? Sorry I was having a busy week and forgot to sign back in. Hope you still reply. Thank you.

this morning I just ordered this cdi electronics 421-4401 engine adapter harness from boatid. The guy said it would work. Taking my boat to a new 8pin and then I figured on buying new 8pin mercury controls. I hope this works as I just spent $186 20 mins ago. Lol

 

[Bt Doctur]

Almost all outboards use a stator to supply power to the ign systems. battery not required except for the electric starts

 

[Donnyb83]

Sorry about that. Didn’t think I was asking a personal question. Was just asking a question to the only guy to answer me. Is that not allowed? If not sorry!

 

[Chris1956]

Your motor has an Alternator Driven Ignition (ADI) system. A battery is required to start the motor. Your motor should also charge the battery after it is running. If you do not have a battery connected, the charging system will be damaged.

I do not know if that CDI adaptor will work, but it is likely as all Merc boat harnesses of your era were the same. The engine harnesses differed a bit, based upon what ignition you have.

 

[Donnyb83]

Thank you very much