GM 350 V8 Backfiring

[Miss Kris]

Ours is a '59 Ski Utility with a 10+- years converted GM 350 V8 unfortunately unused this summer.

Even though the engine has performed admirably for 8 years, my recent attempt to ‘tune up’ have been unsuccessful.

Although I have searched YouTube and tried numerous solutions, the engine continues to 'backfire' with no start. So it appears to be getting fuel and spark.

I'm told the engine is installed 'backwards' in these boats to accommodate prop rotation (is this true?), however, the distributor is towards the stern not the bow with the flywheel at the front (towards the bow).

Attempts to set the timing (presumed issue) by changing the firing order to accommodate each option result in ‘backfiring’.

Ideas please.
Thank you!

[SJHanson]

I would start with double checking your firing order. On my GM 350, reverse rotation was achieved by replacing the timing chain with a gear set. All cam train items, (cam, distributor, oil pump etc.) rotate in the normal direction, but the crank rotates in reverse. To accommodate this, the firing order at the distributor changes from 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2 to 1-2-7-5-6-3-4-8. Note: My engine sits in the boat with the flywheel to the rear. No. 1 cylinder is on the port-side front. Good luck!

[Miss Kris]

Thank you. My 350's flywheel faces forward (bow) with the distributor is in the rear (stern). I have tried everything I know with no solution. Although i have followed YouTube directions, the backfiring on starting attempts continues. I have come up with no other remedy. Perhaps the distributor is installed incorrectly. Any guidance on this will be appreciated.

[Miss Kris]

in order to install the distributor and set the timing, my question is regarding the engine 'position' (frontwards or backwards) in our 19' 1959 Ski Utility which has performed admirably since the conversion from a 283 to a 350 5 years ago.

The unique position of the distributor in the rear rather than the front confused a boat repair 'expert' who recently visited the boat. Aside from saying: "I've never seen anything like this before" 4 or 5 times, he suggested that it was installed backwards changing the position of #1 cylinder. Not yet convinced, I come to Boat Buzz for support.

In order to identify the correct position of #1 cylinder to install the distributor and set the timing, the question is: ""Which is cylinder #1?"

My attempt to attach a photo of the engine did not succeed. "Too Large'. I'll try again.

Thanks!!!