New distributor

We've had an ignition problem that has haunted us for half the summer. Run the boat for more than an hour - or possibly more - and the starboard engine would shut down. It would re-start immediately but wouldn't run over 1800 rpm.  We checked all the ignition components and changed the coil and checked the fuel filters but nothing seemed to cure it. Finally we decided to bite the bullet and install a completely new distributor to replace the 1980-era Chrysler "electronic" distributor that was on the boat when we bought it.

We haven't changed a distributor in years, but we went at it.

There's the old bad boy.and here's the ignition surgeon at work.

Of course, we always work as a team.  Frances watches every move and reminds me that "you need to put that wire on there."

Once complete, the engine started and ran better than ever. With that success, we decided to install another  new Mallory distributor on the other engine. (Not a small decision. These things cost $400 with the needed coil and resistor.) We also borrowed a timing light from our dockmate Rob.

The following Saturday, we installed a new distributor on the port engine but missed the timing. Our friend John T., master mechanic and virtual co-captain of our boat, jumped into the bilge and managed to correct the timing. He put Rob's timing light on both engines and now they both run as smooth as silk.

We think we're in great shape for what little remains of the boating season.