200 EFI Timing

[Haughton]

If I wanted to check timing on each cylinder, is there a mercury tape that goes around the flywheel? Not having issues, just reading an old post about setting timing using the hole that is highest. Winter tinkering

[EuropeanAM]

Yes, there is a timing tape that Mercury offered. Not sure if they're still made... but I believe I still have a few hanging out here.

Alternative is to manually reference each cylinder with a mark on the flywheel. Have to be very critical doing it, as the dial indicator will "dwell" at TDC for a few degrees.

[hooksetter5]

The technicians that did our new powerhead told me that they set the timing while running the boat on the water. Said that's the best way to do it. To be honest, that sounded strange to me (who admittedly knows not much about outboards). This is a 200 EFI 2.5 Merc ... ser/OG939997. I just don't see shops doing that as it seems like "shade tree" thinking.
Logic tells me that timing is critical - so, what should I be thinking here?

[Haughton]

Not a mechanic. But think you have a dealer going above and beyond to set idle rpms and idle timing with motor under full water load. WOT timing was most likely set back at shop. And I'm sure water psi checked and that the gears go foward/n/reverse smoothly to make sure you are good to go. Joe/Don/others will have to say for sure

[JOE54]

is a very good way to set max spark and good to know some will still go that extra mile to lake test

[hooksetter5]

We finally got it out on the river and although we have a break-in regime maxing for now at 4000, it ran great - strong and quiet. It has great response and smooth running... we put about 1.5 -2 hours on it. The shop drained out all of the gas and added about 20 gal of fuel plus 2 qt of premium plus... so we saw a little white smoke - but that was expected. Thanks to all of the gentlemen on this board who patiently and professionally responded to our questions and concerns. Great to know you.


1999 200 EFI 2.5

ser/OG939997

[JOE54]