Hi all,

Wanted the exact procedure for setting the timing and link & sync on 1986 mercury 135hp.

My son and I have replaced all ignition system components as well as all fuel components, cleaned everything well, checked reeds, checked for exhaust restrictions, etc. It starts and idles smooth, but won't get on plane. no missing, bogging, backfiring at all, we step on gas in water under load and it goes to 2600 rpm and runs out of power. we put all new ignition components on at same time, cdi Power packs, stator, rectifier, trigger, plugs, coils, plug wires. It does not have the idle stabalizer on the engine. it does have a voltage regulator.

We purchased from someone and only done compression test at time and 5 cylinders had 120psi and number 2 cylinder was 115psi. we have a clymer manual that says set max timing to 16 degrees with footnote of 18 degrees at cranking. It says 11 degrees for idle timing but every time we set idle timing at 11 degrees we are only idleing around 500 rpm. just not sure we are setting link and sync and timing correct. We have been adjusting the idle up with primary pickup to 1100 rpm on muffs to get 700 in forward gear in water.
We have been setting timing at cranking speed,can you also set it while engine is running, and should it read close to same.
Would love to have someone who knows to walk us through setting the timing.
We would appreciate any help if anyone has any Ideas.

Thanks, Russ