OMC Cobra Prestolite Ignition System Troubleshooting

[@jacquespoirier9071]

on that distributor, the timing advance seems to be centrifugial if so, the electronic components are easy to substitute, the pick up coil can be replaced by a Chrysler PU coil and the module can be replaced by a GM HEI 4 pin module, this needs a bit of thinkering to fit the PU coil im the distributor, you can conserve the original reluctor ring, the wiring diagram is very well detailed on the internet. I done that on a 3.8 liter OMC ( chevrolet 229 base engine equipped with a point style Prestolite marine distrinutor ), the complication was to design a special reluctor ring for the application as this motor is not even fire so I can't use the Chrysler slant six reluctor ring. the result is very good after more than 10 years of use.

[@globaltraders1338]

I think this guys a genius really cool to watch him work on older boats

[@deborahbicker9206]

Mike, this is Bryan, another great video. I'm assuming you have a Ford block, as the distributor is in the front of engine. Ours is the 5.7 GM block. Our distributor is in the rear of the engine. It is the Prestolite brand. I was told also a Mallory distributor was also used on my engine. I still run the breaker points, change them every 10 years. They never once failed before removal change out. I carry a spare set on the boat, never have needed them. Actually I think the Condenser (really a capacitor) would be more likely to fail due to aging. Our motor year is 1990.

[@michaelromer2016]

Deborah Bicker Thanks so much! Yep, mine is a 5.8, but I also have/had many 5.7s--so in reality, I'm better with a Chevy block. I'm about to post how-to test a capacitor. Super easy to do in a few minutes with a multi-meter.

[@KM-gf8oy]

I turned the small nut on top of the pickup visible at 3:00. I thought I had to loosen it to remove the pickup. (I did not) Did I damage anything? To remove the pickup you take out to 2 screw at 7 o'clock and 2 o'clock. Be careful not to drop them or the small lock washers down inside the distributor!!

[@michaelromer2016]

Great feedback! Thanks!

[@peytonpelfrey1288]

Hey Michael I have a couple questions for you. Is there a way I can call you and ask a couple questions about my boat?

[@robtracyford5782]

Hi Michael . Great video. I've learnt the ignition on my OMC 4.3L V6 is shot. Can the Petronix kit be fitted directly to the Prestolite Distributoe after the removal of the old ignitor/pick up or do I have to make some other mods first? Many Thanks.

[@TheKing-nu4fk]

Im having an issue with the various firing orders 302 5.0 Ho vs reg. Just got this boat and having issues starting it. Where is your #1 cylinder on your distributor? 1 o'clock or 7? Different sources say 1 o'clock some say 7...

[@Steve-mt6de]

I have this same engine setup in my boat. I have a fuel pump issue, how do you test fuel pump pressure on this setup. In the video. I can’t seem to find a tester on amazon that will fit the ford fitting. Thanks

[@eugenemyers2195]

Hello there I would like to know what is the upgraded part for inside the distributor you said it in the video that you could give us the info I can’t seem to buy one as it is unavailable

[@rpinto1969]

Hi Michael , good video . I have a volvo penta 5.0 FL V8 ( Ford ) and my distributor is identical to the one on your video with a bust pickup coil .. Do you perhaps know what Ford model and year distributor is compatable ? I am thinking of getting a complete distributor from the automotive line wich is much cheaper than marine parts

[@adamvu119]

do you know what is ohm reading between the two wires is? I got 550 ohms between purple and metal ground. no reading between purple and black.

[@daddye583]

Hey Michael I have the 2.3 Ford cobra I was hoping you can help me. My motor turns over but won’t start at some points it’s seems like she want to fire but still has not not even starting fluid. I’m thinking it’s not getting gas or something to do with spark. Should I try what you have done in the video and is there any other pointer you could give me I would truly be so grateful. Thank you

[@scottb9265]

Can you do a video on replacing it with the conversion kit?

[@Steve-mt6de]

The 1589 mentioned is it for 5.0 and 5.8 cobra ?

[@Steve-mt6de]

How do you set the timing ? Don’t see a video on it sorry.

[@mjgiersberg]

Wondering if you might be able to help me out. I'm pretty sure I have a bad ignitor based on this "click" test as well as some voltage testing I did based on the service manual. I have ordered the PerTronix 1589 ignitor, and also the PerTronix coil. The PerTronix coil is an internally resisted coil, and the coil that is currently there says it is "for use with external resistor" Do you know if there is an external resistor or resistor wire on this engine? Based on the testing I have done, with the ignition on I get 12v between the solenoid and purple wire that goes to the + side of the coil. If it was resisted wouldn't the voltage be less that 12v?

[@wesconner3203]

Mike thank you for the video. When you change out the pick up is there anything else that needs to be changed. I a few hundred dollars in parts and still not running. And do you know where the white wire with a black strip hooks to on the coil. Please help. 1994 omc cobra 302 ho. Thanks.

[@michaelromer2016]

I have 94 302 in the back, I'll take a look and get back to you.

[@bobalong0411]

Michael. Thanks for the video. My distributor is exactly like yours. All of the replacement ignitions appear to be retro fit for an ignition that had lobes on the shaft to open close points. Since the one in the video (like mine) don't have lobes, but rather the 8 magnetic points for the hall effect sensor, does this mean the whole distributor must be replaced ? Or just piece out a sensor and adapt it keeping the existing magnets that appear to be press fitted to the shaft ? Thanks, again.

[@michaelromer2016]

The most common part that fails is the electric pickup. If you need a new one, buy this one: www.amazon.com/dp/B004OXPDC4/?coliid=IS0EEDWN1YJ4K&colid=3A5H05E4WD179&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

[@TheFire1man]

I have one more question. I have installed the 1589 in my distributor. I notice the pickup on the old module is about 6 o’clock. The new module sets about 8 o’clock. Will need to rotate the distributor to make up for the different position of the pickup. Thanks

[@michaelromer2016]

Set the distributor in where it goes in with no effort. If you have to rotate it to get it to drop in, pull it out, and give it another go. Once it drops all the way in, barely tighten the bolt. Fine tune the rest of the way with a timing gun. If you don't know how to use a timing gun reply back to me and I'll make a video.

[@TheFire1man]

Got it running thanks for all of your help!

[@itoshii12345]

My pick up only has a ground wire going to the negative on my coil how do i upgrade to the newer style?

[@rubenramos7422]

Thanks Mike I do appreciate it best regards

[@alexhee4917]

I have a 92 OMC 5.8L and have issues with my ignition system. I’m told I need to find one that works with a a Prestolite screwdown cap and you also since I have a shift assist module, this part must be intended to work with that. Is the part you mentioned above going to work? Do I need to buy any other parts? Thanks!

[@michaelromer2016]

The aftermarket replacement requires the other part . Check the other comments under this video and you will see my recommendations.

[@alexhee4917]

Michael Romer I bought the 1589 prestolite ignitor and I am now being told it does not work with OMC engines with shift assist module... What prestolite ignitor do I need instead?

[@brs226]

Just changed my out to the pertronix. I checked the voltage at the positive terminal of the flamethrower coil I was getting 12 or greater volts. The pertronix 1589 requires at least 12v. I thought these had a ballast wire to reduce voltage. I have 9.8v at idle off the negative terminal. After install I was able to let the boat idle on the ramp for a while and measured 12.8v on the positive terminal. Does these seem correct to you? The engine started right up after install (minus 1 large back fire on initial crank over). Idle is smooth but tach is showing 2000rpm which is about 1500 rpm to high if I remember correctly.

[@michaelromer2016]

You are on track but you need to make an adjustment on the back of the RPM gauge to fix that, I’ll make a video on that

[@EllienZoe_4413]

Do you have links where I can buy the replacements. I've been going down the list trying to get my cobra running. Replaced spark plugs, ignition coil and thinking this has to be it.

[@michaelromer2016]

They don’t make that pickup anymore. Take a look in the comments field below. I have the link in there for the substitute.

[@sigor2011]

Do you have a video or write up ok how to set timing on this beast? Thanks

[@michaelromer2016]

I tell you what, timing with the new one isn’t much different than regular timing. I do have a video on timing. Locate number one cylinder and determine the correct timing based on your motor. There’s a timing gauge above the harmonic balancer. You’ll be able to hear a difference in the way the motor runs when you rotate the distributor clock wise/counter clockwise.

[@sigor2011]

@@michaelromer2016I cant find info at what rpm do I set the timing at and do I need to disconnect or short something while doing it?

[@jimreyson8113]

When I turn key on should I have voltage on the positive and negative of the coil on the wires going to distributor

[@michaelromer2016]

Correct

[@ronniesmith6028]

1 more question if you dont mind. I'm headed to a pull a part yard. What's the original piece called? Or which vehicles might share this component?

[@michaelromer2016]

The distributor's electronic pickup. Old school people called them points. Keep in mind you aren't getting points, you have an electronic pickup.

[@ronniesmith6028]

@@michaelromer2016 thanks man. Tried to find on that fit through old cars about 200 fords. No dice. Upgrading electronic pick up and ESA it appears.

[@michaelromer2016]

Ronnie, order it here: Pertronix 1589 Prestolite 8 Cylinder Ignitor www.amazon.com/dp/B004OXPDC4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_wTOiDbPHKG0SV

[@KM-gf8oy]

For my engine, a 91 Ford 5.8L the gap between the rotor and the pickup (its galled the air gap) is .008 in. or .20 mm. Yours may be different. This is found in various places: My Clymer manual has it in the Electrical System chapter and section for the Prestolite and in my Seloc manual in section 10-45. WARNING Have the Ignition OFF while you check the gap. Your feeler gauge can trigger the ignition and cause a spark. Depending on where coil output wire is sitting, you could start a fire. So Ignition OFF. If you are rotating the distributor to intentionally cause a spark like in the video, please be sure that you know where the spark will go. You can ground the output from the coil. I do not think it is good idea to pull the output wire out of the coil because then the spark has nowhere to go. That may damage the system. The best option is to use a spark tester tool that simulates the spark plug gap and clamps to a good ground. Like this one: www.napaonline.com/en/p/BK_7002015

[@michaelromer2016]

Great information!

[@maryheater1872]

Just changed mine out. I purchased a replacement one years ago when I bought the boat. (OEM). Boat started right up but didn't know the gap. I just guessed at it. The information you gave me on the gap is just what I have been looking for. Thank you so much.

[@brentcarson3894]

Michael - excellent video. I have this same pick-up in my 1987 454 marine Crusaders. I am almost certain the pick-up is shot in my port engine because I swapped the pickups between the port and starboard engines. When I did this the starboard engine now had problems starting. So, I bought the Pertonix 1589 pick-up, but when I installed it, nothing, it will not start. Any ideas?

[@brentcarson3894]

Also, I only had problems getting to RPM and/or keeping it running after it was warmed up and turned off, then started again. Is the pick-up susceptible to heat once it gets old?

[@moejay7403]

@@brentcarson3894 did you fix this problem

[@brentcarson3894]

Javed Mohammed my problem turned out to be a bad fuel pump. I was able to get the ignition straightened out.

[@DennisSection]

Great video. Do you have a video of replacing the spark plugs and wires?

[@michaelromer2016]

I don’t but I can shoot that for you. Please hit subscribe to be notified, otherwise you won’t know when it gets posted. I’ll have a video up soon.

[@arthurrubino8368]

I have a 4.3 v6 is it the same Pertronix 1589 part

[@michaelromer2016]

This likely is the same, what year is yours?

[@daltonstrunk3817]

Hi mike, I was wondering if you would advise installing just the new pickup that you posted from amazon, or would you be better off installing a whole new distributor. In this case what would be my best option for a 5.0 with forward distributor?

[@michaelromer2016]

I would keep your distributor. The Pertronix 1589 upgrade is your best option. The only catch is the need to change the ESA module to the upgraded one I mentioned.

[@daltonstrunk3817]

Michael Romer do you happen to have a number for that as wel?

[@daltonstrunk3817]

Do you have number for ESA module as well?

[@michaelromer2016]

www.marinepartssource.com/shift-assist-module-cdi-electronics-123-9898-p?gclid=Cj0KCQjw45_bBRD_ARIsAJ6wUXQZ1GJJxHbypQ7wyur8M5zzFZ8npbwu-qPaQfwF2pVcLGy4xxaLej8aAjFMEALw_wcB

[@daltonstrunk3817]

Michael Romer I have been doing a little reading on the ESA module link you shared. It does not directly replace my current module. I’m assuming I need to switch to this other model for the new pickup to work properly? or do I need to just put a new module in that cross’s to my current module? Don’t want to order the wrong thing! Please help, thank you!

[@joshgraves6630]

The boat got to 230 degrees last week so I killed it. Took about an hour to get towed back. When I went to start it I found out it wouldn't run. I thought It was the coil but nope, I cooked the pickup. No lake this week.

[@keithbrooks153]

I have this same distributor they don't make any more what distributor can I use in place of this

[@michaelromer2016]

Do you just need the electric pickup? It's rare to need a new distributor. Performance upgrade?

[@youGooglin]

Is the snapping sound the pick-up or is it the coil firing?

[@michaelromer2016]

It's the sound of the coil firing through the pickup.

[@youGooglin]

@@michaelromer2016 interesting! '& I mean that with all due respect. Thanks for your channel & the wealth of information u have made available. I was glad to find it & still am when I was asked the other day to help out a commercial fisherman here in San Francisco Bay & beyond with an 89 cobra. My first factory certificate was omc 38 years ago, But I've spent more time since I came to the mainland in 07 working as an electrician. As u r probably aware, fixing boats puts u in a position where u end up meeting the owner of the company when u fix his boat... I gotta wrap what I'm doing so I gotta stop now but I'm on my phone would probables loss whether I'd start Ed if I don't finish. The coil firing through the pick-up or the sound being transmitted through it

[@michaelromer2016]

@@youGooglin Nice to meet you! Either way, if you hear the snap, it's a good thing!

[@bigpm64]

Hey another question new petronix 1589 and new coil still no spark at coil both 50 amps ok, what else could it be? 93 fourwinns 215 with omc 5.8 thanx for your reply

[@michaelromer2016]

You likely have a bad ground or there is a line that was disconnected in the process of repair. www.go2marine.com/productcenters/electrical/OMC-Diagrams.pdf

[@ronniesmith6028]

Is the conversion kit exactly the same on the 5.0. Its looks the same just wanna make sure

[@michaelromer2016]

It is the same

[@jordanfischer4112]

Hey Mike I was hoping you could help me with my 93 4.3 cobra prestolite ignition

[@Patrick-dy7lg]

He never answered you so you sold it huh?

[@Patrick-dy7lg]

I bet it was the 2 ohm resistor that went bad in the harness…?

[@bigpm64]

I have 92 omc 5.8 no fire at coil the module in distributor is same as urs it failed click test can i put 1589 petronix iginitor in distributor and fix my boat

[@michaelromer2016]

Exactly, Pertronix 1589 Prestolite 8 Cylinder Ignitor

[@TheFire1man]

If I switch to the 1589 do I need to update the EAS module. Thanks for the video

[@michaelromer2016]

@@TheFire1man Run your motor after you get the timing adjusted and test your ESA. I'm hoping Petronix may have updated their 1589, if they didn't and your ESA doesn't work (and it did before you changed it), then you need to follow these instructions www.hastings.org/~stuart/cobra/diodefix.jpg

[@Ethan-ur7qi]

nice lead set. What are they?

[@michaelromer2016]

Those are Accel, but I don't recommend them. Go with MagForce! kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3LXdWephtWph7c

[@THETALLBAND]

I missed the link to replacemt parts.... I have a 460 king cobra Omc

[@michaelromer2016]

Here you go: www.amazon.com/Pertronix-1589-Prestolite-Cylinder-Ignitor/dp/B004OXPDC4

[@rubenramos7422]

Hi mike this is Ruben, you have a grate video, how I can find the pickup retrofit, mine is exactly like the one you showing thanks for the help best regards

[@michaelromer2016]

Hey Ruben. This is exactly what you need. www.amazon.com/dp/B004OXPDC4/?coliid=IS0EEDWN1YJ4K&colid=3A5H05E4WD179&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it and www.cdielectronics.com/product/shift-assist/omc-sterndrive-shift-assist-123-9898-p-replaces-982749-982755-982774-984036-984276-984281-984730-984740-985902-986342-986837-987738-987739-987740-18-5888-9-24500/

[@stevesellsable]

I have a ‘93 Donzi sweet 16 with the 5.0 H.O. I am upgrading to the Pertronix 1589, the Pertroniz 40011 coil. According to the CDI OMC Cobra Drive cross reference chart, I need the 123-7571 ESA. I am looking at the installation instructions that say to add a ballast resistor. Does my system already have a resistor wire?

[@michaelromer2016]

I’ve seen those instructions. You don’t have a resistor wire already. You are tracking, make sure you had that resistor.

[@davidgodina7539]

Ok what's the difference between this 460 king cobra and a 460

[@christopherdesarno8404]

Hey where dothe two wires from the prestolite distributor go on the coil? The pos or neg?

[@michaelromer2016]

Correct, let me know if you have questions.

[@christopherdesarno8404]

Where do the distributor wires go on the coil?

[@garywood8824]

Send me the link to change out 2000 Volvo 5.7 gs distributor

[@HaywoodDouglas]

So how do you install the Pertonix?

[@michaelromer2016]

The unit is pretty simple and even plug and play. Cylinder 1 needs to be at TDC and make sure the rotor on the distributor faces cylinder number 1. Fire it up and grab a timing light. Once you get the timing setup good, it will run like a champ.

[@amermaroun7039]

Can you send me the link for the replacement part thanks

[@michaelromer2016]

Check this out How-to Find Boat Parts kzbin.info/www/bejne/pqalYnitZpyghKs

[@jerryellis9043]

What if it snaps just once?

[@JoseRodriguez-td9rq]

Where did you buy the distributor?

[@JoseRodriguez-td9rq]

I have a motor but I can't get it to start

[@derickbletcher3747]

Michael I did screw up my igniter setting,,, can I get the specs instead of using a credit card haha

[@michaelromer2016]

Derick. There are metal feeler gauges to get it exact. I recommend not using a credit card, it’s to big. A business card is perfect.

[@derickbletcher3747]

@@michaelromer2016 are you saying that you dont have the spec then? and a business card will do... thanks

[@derickbletcher3747]

@@michaelromer2016 can you point me in the right direction to the best distributor to buy for my 5.0 ford marine

[@Ben-of6vq]

Bolt at 5:55 is definitely stripping not turning

[@Ben-of6vq]

Great video though- helped me a ton, thanks!

[@michaelromer2016]

Sorry to hear that bolt is stripped! Try re-threading it. www.amazon.com/Best-Choice-40-Piece-Tap-Die/dp/B073YC3S8F/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=standard+bolt+threader&qid=1567486325&s=gateway&sr=8-1

[@michaelromer2016]

Also make sure you plug up the distributor hole too in order to keep metal from getting into the oil.

[@KB-qk7kn]

What you're calling a "pickup" is called the 'distributor sensor'. The gap is called "air gap" and should be set to 0.008 inches (0.203 mm.) What you call notches are called "teeth".