MSD 6560 6M-2L Marine Certified Ignition with Rev Limit Installation - Manual (Page 3)

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS 3
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Spark Plugs: Choosing the correct spark plug design and heat range is important when trying to get
the best performance possible. Since there are so many engine combinations and manufacturers,
MSD does not recommend which plug or gap is exactly right for your application.
It is recommended to follow the engine builder or manufacturer's specification for spark plugs. With
that, you can then experiment with the plug gap to obtain the best performance. The gap of the plugs
can be opened in 0.005" increments, then tested until the best performance is obtained. MSD judges
the plug gap by compression and components:
These examples are just starting
points to get you going in the right
direction. Every application is different
and should be tested and tuned.
Compression Spark Plug Gap
Up to 10.5:1: 0.050" - 0.060"
10.5:1 - 13.0:1: 0.040" - 0.050"
Above 13.0:1: 0.035" - 0.045"
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
Welding: If you are welding on your boat, to avoid the chance of damage, always disconnect both
Heavy Power cables of the MSD (You should also disconnect the tach ground wire too).
Distributor Cap and Rotor: It is recommended to install a new distributor cap and rotor when installing
the MSD Ignition Control. The cap should be clean inside and out especially the terminals and rotor tip.
MOUNTING
The MSD 6M-2 can be mounted in any position in the engine compartment as long as it is away from
direct engine heat sources. It is not recommended to mount the unit in a small enclosed area.
When you find a suitable location to mount the unit, make sure the wires of the ignition reach their
connections. Hold the Ignition in place and mark the location of the mounting holes. Use an 1/8" drill
bit to drill the holes. Use the supplied self tapping screws to mount the box.
WIRING
GENERAL WIRING INFORMATION
Wire Length: All of the wires of the MSD Ignition may be shortened as long as quality connectors are
used or soldered in place. To lengthen the wires, use one size bigger gauge wire (10 gauge for the
power leads and 16 gauge for the other wires) with the proper connections. All connections must be
soldered and sealed. MSD offers Weathertight connectors and terminals separately.
Grounds: A poor ground connection can cause many frustrating problems. When a wire is specified
to go to ground, it should be connected to the battery negative terminal, engine block or chassis.
There should always be a ground strap between the engine and the chassis. Always securely connect
the ground wire to a clean, paint free metal surface.
Ballast Resistor: If your engine has a ballast resistor in line with the coil wiring, it is not required with
the MSD (though it is not necessary to bypass it). This is because the MSD receives its main power
directly from the battery.