Mercury Mariner 30/40 4-Stroke Outboard Service Manual 1998, Page 115Get this manual
TIMING, SYNCHRONIZING,ADJUSTING
3Slowly increase the engine RPM while watching the ignition timing marksThe timing should increase to the maximum timing specification "Full Advance" at approximately 6000 RPM(If not within specification window, refer to Diagnostic Test Procedures Section 2A
aTiming Mark (Full Advance)
Carburetor Synchronization