Engine won't start in timing set up

[wbatkiewicz]

I have a 1991 Carver aft cabin with twin 454 Crusaders. Starboard engine runs fine in "run mode". Wiring harness off distributor has run and time mode where you unplug the connector, rotate wire, replug in to time the engine. (Disables the distributor advance so you can time engine at correct RPM.) When I do this the engine will not start. When I switch back to run mode, starts right up. Not getting spark to plugs in time mode. I have checked all wiring and it appears too be fine. Any ideas what component is not functioning, not allowing to start engine in time mode?

Both engines have 850 hours, burn or leak no oil. Starboard engine uses a bit more fuel than port engine. All ignition wires, plugs, distributor cap, rotors replaced within the past 60 hours of operation.

Port engine, no problems, starts in "time" or "run' mode.

[g36]

Have you temporarily tried using the plug from the port engine that will start in time mode for the stbd problem? May have issue with the plug.

[km1125]

Check the timing when it's in "run" mode and compare to the other engine. I wonder if the timing is so retarded that it won't start at base timing and needs a little advance to get going.

[wbatkiewicz]

Thanks for the suggestions, will post results after I swap wires and check timing between engines in run mode.