merc 470

[diverdave1954]

I have a1983 v20 with the 470 in her. I hear a ticking sound when I fire her up. The marina where I fuel only has 87 octane. Could that octane be the cause of the ticking sound or is my 470 showing signs a rebuild is coming my way?

[frayed_knot]

If it's ticking at idle, it's not an octane issue. Have you checked the timing? Other than that, valve noise, or if it's loud, a bad lifter.

[spareparts]

does the ticking sound go away after it runs for a few seconds, could be lifter noise( they are non adjustable rockers, you have to use different length pushrods) or it could be the starter bendix hitting the flywheel( I think yours has a Ford style starter), if it keeps makeing noise after a few seconds, it could be something else

[C YENSEN]

well it is good to see another I/O guy around here. I have the some motor as you. Mine was ticking a little and it was the timing. got her timed and it is all better now. how do you like that engine? have you done anything to her? or is she still original.....mine is.

I would check the timing then look at the lifters? and like asked earlier, does it quit after she warms up?

WELCOME ABOARD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ;)

[reelapeelin]

Any of you I/O guys gone to electronic distributors?...I personally would, based on what I've heard about 'em ;) ...

[C YENSEN]

REEL, I like to stay with the old saying

"If it aint broke dont fix it" ;D

so no, I have not switched ;)

[frayed_knot]

I'll switch to a pertronix setup if my points take a crap.

[spareparts]

I'd put a pertronix set up in without hesitation, doesn't take much longer than puting in a set of points

[rb437]

I'll switch to a pertronix setup if my points take a crap.

Don't you mean when, not if? Without exception, every time I've had trouble starting my boat, the problem has been points

[spareparts]

when installing the pertronix, don't forget to inspect the advance springs under the point plate, those motors are getting old and showing their wear

[cfelton]

Yep, Ive gotta 170hp/470 merc. I just rebuilt the whole dang thing myself. They're pretty simple motors, but built tuff. After I got it all together and running I installed a pertronics ignition and it made a world of difference in starting and performance of my engine! I would recommend it to anybody. I kept my old points as a standby.So far as the ticking,check your timing,if thats okit could be a lifter going bad. try some Marvil Mystery Oil ,It usually quietens them down. Try to pinpoint the noise,open the oil fill on your valve cover while its running,see if it in your valve train or not.