Thread:

Magneto Question

I have a blown alky with a mag, it takes mine a spin or two to fire, but could be due to alky. I dont think it should take long with carb gas deal. It doesnt take long for the mag rotor to make a rotation.

Originally Posted by Tittyman

If your magneto is in perfect condition will it start the motor with a tap of the key like a distributor..or does the motor have to turn over a few times to generate the energy to fire...thanks

yes, it should start with a tap of the key...my set-up uses 2 buttons to start...one, which is a shut-off button that i push & hold to spin the motor to get oil pressure & the other to start the motor...works flawlessly...a Mag is self contained & mine will start on a flashlight battery

also depends on the mag... I put a MSD Pro Mag in my blown alcohol motor. Wouldn't start. Pulled a plug to check spark and it started. Put the plug back in, wouldn't start. Come to find out that MSD Pro Mag's require a minimum of 200rpm to start, pulling one plug made just enough difference in rpm's to make it work. Put a Mallory super mag in, no problem.

Does anyone want a 5" autometer mag tach? Used waterproof.

I have a vertex as well (simple and reliable) and my set up is similar to fast rats except I have a toggle switch to control the ground. Get it turning over with a push button then flip the ground switch and pops off right away.

Side note- you want to make sure the mag is always grounded when boat is stored or it will de-magnetize itself.