Page 143 - REPOWER REFERENCE GUIDE (2020)

Ignition System

5. Attach the timing template or decal to the harmonic balancer, ensuring that the 0º marks on both the balancer and decal
align.

a - Index mark
b - Timing template with 1‑1/16 in. mark
highlighted
c - Harmonic balancer

a

b

c

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6. To ensure that cylinder #1 is on the compression stroke:
a. Remove the distributor cap and note the position of the rotor.
NOTE: The harmonic balancer will rotate twice for each revolution of the rotor.
IMPORTANT: Do not turn the engine in reverse (counterclockwise) to align the marks. Doing so will void the
procedure.
b. Use a remote starter switch to crank the engine until the index mark on the harmonic balancer is at the 15º mark and
the rotor is near the timing pointer on the distributor housing. It may be necessary to use a remote switch to get close
to the position, and then use a breaker bar and socket to precisely align the marks. If you overshoot the mark, crank
the engine through two revolutions until the rotor is near the timing pointer. Do not rotate the engine backwards.

a a - Timing pointer on the distributor housing
b - Rotor

b

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90-8M0149179 eng NOVEMBER 2018 © 2019 Mercury Marine Page 5B-9