PLATINUM MERCURY 398-2202

Function and technical context

Breaker platinum is a critical component of the ignition system in Mercury petrol engines. Its function is to interrupt the flow of current in the primary circuit of the ignition coil at the exact moment to generate the spark on the spark plugs. It works inside the distributor, coordinating the ignition of the cylinders by closing and opening their metal contacts. A worn or burned platinum causes poor ignition, loss of engine power, difficulty starting and abnormal fuel consumption, especially critical in navigation where ignition reliability is vital for safety.

When to replace this part?

The platinums present typical symptoms of wear such as weak spark, unstable idle, misfiring under load and difficulty starting when cold. It is recommended to check the condition of the contacts during each seasonal maintenance and replace them preventively every 200-300 hours of navigation or when pitting and burning are seen on the contacts. Preventive platinum replacement prevents unexpected breakdown at sea and ensures reliable ignition throughout the entire sailing season.

Equivalent manufacturer part numbers