SORRY FOR MULTILE POSTINGS!
(BUT OTHERS MAY STILL BENEFIT FROM THAT AS WELL)

This is what I found while researching ignition problems:

http://www.outdrives.com/precisionparts/263.html:


Quote:
"Outdrives.com
Ignition Modules
Outdrives.com! stocks most of the Mercruiser electronic
ignition modules".

and then:

"All modules must be properly installed or they will fail.
Over tightening of the mounting screws is a common mistake.
Most Mercruiser Distributors and Modules have a ground wire attached to
the housing.
Modules DO go bad from time to time. Symptoms can range from not
getting over 2500 RPM's to the engine not being able to start at all."

Could this be it? The description of the potential problem sounds
unpleasantly familiar...