changing over to electric ignition?

#1 02-28-2004, 08:00 PM

I have an origanal 1979 merc 470 rebuilt and running great but i have been told to switch over to an electronic ignition for better trolling and charging. Is this good info and if so does anybody know of a kit or model? Also how do I know if this has been done allready? ??? ???

#2 02-28-2004, 08:46 PM

don't think electronic ignition has anything to do with better charging (if you mean charging the batteries...) you might have confused that with getting a more efficient burning because of a cleaner spark produced by electronic ignition systems; this would give you a cleaner burn at trolling speeds also !

to check if it's done already:
you might look around if there still is a mechanism under the hood that has a little mechanical hammer and flint (1 hammer and 1 flint for each cylinder) that sparks things up for you ! ;D ;D

just kidding of course- but your question just makes me believe this is not a job you would want to do yourself !

#3 02-28-2004, 09:19 PM

thanks but I was looking for advice.

macojoe · #4 02-28-2004, 10:19 PM

well I had the 165 stright I/O and always ran the points!! will cost you to get everything and install your self a few hundred and IMO not worth it!! Points are cheap about $15 for points and condenser and i change evey year. never had a problem.

macojoe · #5 02-28-2004, 11:29 PM

Overton's has kits for you. They are for $120 they have 3 differents kits type theses 3 # one at a time to see which one you need:

Item #27744
# 27746
#27752

http://www.overtons.com/

I am sure this is not the only place you can get them, But they just sent me a catalog and I saw them.

#6 03-03-2004, 11:03 PM

i have the 165 straight 6 and changed over to electrionic and i notice a difference, youll see how much smoother the engine will run , and youll get more power because its more efficent. i would diffently change over.

#7 03-05-2004, 07:58 PM

I changed over a 4 cyl mercruiser from point to elec ign. and it was quite simple and has improved performance and the engine does not drift out of timing as it did with points. EB marine sells the kits for under a 100 .

Kevin

#8 03-05-2004, 10:45 PM

i changed my stater type charging system to an aftermarket altenater kit .is this what your asking for.i also have a 4cyl 470 170hp merc i/o

#9 03-06-2004, 02:45 PM

jay sea any info where to find this system?

#10 03-07-2004, 12:40 AM

yes i found some info in an old ''sierra marine''catalog.how i found adealer near me was i called ''argo''marine in fla. 18007222720 i told them iwas a marine repair shop looking for the 470 alternater conversion .they gave me the number of o supply house in n.j. .i gave them the same story bout being a repair shop they ship same day. cant rember the name .isaved some good money if you need help i'll make phone calls next week . jay