You can buy the timing tool as well - they are cheap. Merc sells them to.

OEM service manual lists this and the procedure as well plus the part number.

THanks, I'll see what I can dig up, the Clymer doesn't mention it. I found a scan tool, code clearer, base timing tool combo (Rinda Codemate 94008) as well for $64. May just go that route and have multiple functions.

You can also jump the 2 pins with a paper clip or jumper wire.

Got it to idle (somewhat) today.

The attached (pic URL below) male/female plug (set) at the back of the starboard valve cover was unplugged. My friend helping said he plugged it in and the idle cleaned up; however, last week I did the same when the engine was cooler and nothing happened so I unplugged it again. Note, the same plug on the other motor does not have the black jumper wire (on the connector with the yellow wire) and runs like a top. I haven't been able to decifer what the plug is for. Any guesses? Any reason why this one may be jumped and the other isn't? Harm in removing the jumper wire?

In service mode (poor idling motor) the timing mark won't hold still, keeps bouncing. It will idle at 650 rpm out of service mode but sounds like it's intermittently dropping a cylinder. Will the misfire cause the timing mark to bounce and/or are their other causes? The engine was compression tested late last year and I was told the plugs were fine.

https://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a...D550/ry%3D400/