1980 200 merc

[viper15]

Can anyone tell me why I cannot set the timing on this merc 200? With the advance module white wire disconnected and the timing pointer location verified, my timing light shows the timing so retatded it does not even come to the degree marks. could the pick up plate be bad. Any info will help.

[Superdave]

and throw it away, or sell it on eBay. Use a dial indicator and find TDC on #1 and adjust your pointer. At idle set your primary pickup as close to zero as you can get it. Back your boat in the lake and start it and put it in gear. Set your max spark at 25* maximum if you run good fuel. Otherwise try 23*. You need to go through the carb linkage first to make sure it's setup right. The zero primary pickup helped me on the bottom a lot! If the motor has an idle stabilizer - throw it away too!
Dave