Volvo Penta Ignition Contact Set 243799 | Bosch Distributor AQ BB Series
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Part Details
- Part Number: 243799
- Brand: Volvo Penta
- Type: Ignition contact set (breaker points) — distributor internal component
- System: Distributor ignition — points-style ignition system
- Diagram Position: Position 2 inside Bosch distributor assembly 0231178011
- Aftermarket Cross-Reference: 18-5305
- Important: Despite the catalog name “Switch Kit,” this is the ignition breaker-point/contact set that installs inside the Bosch distributor — not a dashboard switch or battery isolator
About This Part
Genuine Volvo Penta 243799 is the OEM ignition contact set (breaker points) for Bosch distributor 0231178011 fitted to classic Volvo Penta AQ and BB gasoline marine engines. It is the contact set that controls ignition timing inside the distributor cap. This part is only compatible with engines using a conventional points-style ignition system — if your engine has been converted to electronic ignition, breaker points are no longer used. Identify the Bosch distributor assembly number on your engine before ordering, as several AQ and BB engines were supplied with more than one distributor configuration, and the incorrect contact set will not provide correct timing or fit.
Compatible Applications
Confirm the Bosch distributor assembly number before ordering. Verified applications with Bosch distributor 0231178011 include:
- Volvo Penta AQ115A / AQ115B
- Volvo Penta AQ130A / AQ130B / AQ130C / AQ130D
- Volvo Penta AQ131A / AQ131D
- Volvo Penta AQ145B
- Volvo Penta AQ165A
- Volvo Penta AQ170A / AQ170B / AQ170C
- Volvo Penta AQD21A
- Volvo Penta BB115A / BB115B / BB115C
- Volvo Penta BB165A / BB165B
Some AQ130-series engines were fitted with more than one Bosch distributor configuration. If your AQ130 lists contact set 1306169 rather than 243799 in the parts manual, confirm the distributor assembly number on your engine before ordering. Always verify the distributor assembly number — not the engine model alone — to ensure the correct contact set.
When to Replace
Replace the contact set when inspection reveals any of the following:
- Burned, pitted, or heavily worn contact surfaces
- Point wear beyond the serviceable limit
- Unstable ignition timing that cannot be corrected by adjustment
- Difficult starting or intermittent spark
- Incorrect or inconsistent point gap
- Contact deterioration found during routine distributor service
Service Notes
After installation, set the breaker-point gap and ignition timing to the specification in the service manual for your exact engine model and distributor. Point gap and timing specifications vary by engine — do not use a generic setting. For a complete distributor service, replace the distributor cap, rotor, and condenser at the same time.
Related Distributor Service Parts
- Distributor cap: 841263 — replace together with the contact set for a complete distributor service
- Rotor: 243903
- Capacitor / condenser: 841262 (applicable distributors)
- Distributor small-parts kit: 273521
- Alternate contact set (different distributor configuration): 1306169 — for AQ130-series engines with a different Bosch distributor; confirm by distributor assembly number
Technical FAQ
Is this a dashboard switch or ignition switch? No. Despite the “Switch Kit” catalog name, 243799 is the ignition breaker-point/contact set that installs inside the Bosch distributor — not any type of external switch.
What point gap should I set after installation? Refer to the service manual for your specific engine model. Point gap specifications vary by engine and distributor — do not apply a generic setting.
My AQ130 shows two different contact sets in the parts manual — which do I need? The AQ130 series was fitted with more than one Bosch distributor. Identify the distributor assembly number on the engine to confirm whether 243799 or 1306169 is correct for your application.
Can I use the aftermarket cross-reference instead? Aftermarket reference 18-5305 is commonly cited for this application. For best reliability on a marine engine, the genuine OEM contact set is recommended.
Cross-Reference Part Numbers
- OEM: 243799
- Bosch distributor: 0231178011
- Aftermarket cross-reference: 18-5305
- Related (different distributor): 243460, 1306169
Parts Desk Insight
The most common ordering mistake on 243799 is confusing it with a dashboard or battery switch — the catalog name “Switch Kit” has misled many customers. This is a distributor breaker-point set, and it only applies to engines with a conventional points-style ignition. The critical check is the Bosch distributor assembly number on the engine: if your engine shows distributor 0231178011, this is the correct contact set. If a full tune-up is being done, ordering the distributor cap (841263) and rotor (243903) at the same time avoids a second parts run — these three items are typically replaced together on a points-style distributor service.
Shipping information
In-stock and OEM parts: ship same or next business day.
Locally warehoused items: ship within 1-3 business days.
Special-order items: timeline confirmed after order.
Returns & warranty
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If you are not fully satisfied, you may request a return within 30 days of delivery. All returns must receive pre-approval prior to being sent back. Unauthorized returns will not be accepted.
To qualify for a return:
Item must be in new, unused condition
Product must be in its original packaging
All parts, components, hardware, manuals, and accessories must be included
Packaging must be undamaged and suitable for resale
Important:
Electronics are strictly inspected. No returns on open-box electronics. Exceptions may apply only with prior written approval. Any electronic unit that has been installed, powered, activated, or altered may not be eligible for return.
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