3.0 Merc Engine swap.-gctid813615

[Guest]

Learned scholars I seek your advice and help.

I have a 1990 capri with the I/O 3.0 l merc. I pulled the engine as the block has an internal leak / crack and have been fortunate enough to find a 2000 motor with an intact block.

I am currently going to rebuild the 2000 (serial # L654438 ) which I believe is an Alpha 1 .

My question is this, The new engine has no distributor or any of the other components of the electronic ignition, yet the older motor is intact. Is it possible to convert the new motor to old ie points, distributor , etc or use the old distributor and modify it to be electronic, or is there an automotive ignition I can adapt ?

I am trying to get this back up and running but without spending a fortune .

Any help is greatly appreciated,

thanks in advance

Andy

[Ruffryder]

Around back in 90, MerCruiser was installing 3 different types of distributor. Conventional points (Delco), Delco EST (same electronic ignition system as is used in current 3.0L carb MerCruiser engines) and DDIS (digital distributorless ignition system).

Conventional points, DDIS, you should stay away from.

Automotive ignition can not be adapted, that would be illegal so don't do it.

Get a 3.0 Delco EST ignition kit & install...

Electronic ignition is what you want on your new engine.

[Chief_Alen]

I agree, go with a new marine dist.

Give this a read post #9

http://baylinerownersclub.org/~bayline1/index.php/forum/technical-discussion/54022-motor-siezing-up-and-smoking#539190

[Pcpete]

Another agree on going electronic. It doesn't have to be a billet machined unit designed for a drag boat, but it does need to be one that is specifically made for marine use. Same with fuel pump, alternator, starter, and carburetor. There are failsafes built into each of these that can prevent something from going boom at a very bad time. Yup, it's a bit more money, but these are not items to be risky with.