2 questions, spark plug question color? and starter

[Leinenkugel#1]

1) I recently purchased a boat with a 1987 force 85hp. I have manual on its way in the mail. I have been reading threads (a lot) about what sort of problems I may encounter. I pulled the plugs to see what color is on the firing side and noticed that the top and bottom are colored brownish black ( which I think is normal) but the middle one is shinny? Is this maybe not firing?
2) When starting the engine the starter hesitates for a moment (1 to 3 sec) and then finally kicks in to the fly wheel. Is this sign of a starter going? My battery is new and tests fine.

I just got it last week and it has not been on the water yet. I have fired it up with the water muffs and seems to idle fine.

thanks

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: 2 questions, spark plug question color? and starter

First thing to do on any outboard before buying and trouble shooting is do a compression check and a spark check.
Get a GOOD comp tester, pull all three plugs push throttle all the way forward then jump it. All three should be within 10-15# of each other.
Use something to hold the plug then hold it against the block,the spark should be strong. Check all connection.WD the key switch.If there is a problem come back and tell me what it is.Jerry

 

[eurolarva]

Re: 2 questions, spark plug question color? and starter

Hopefully number 2 is a blown head gasket. Get the compression test done first then figure out what the deal is with that shiny plug. Motor will run fine on two cylinders out of the water using muffs. You will notice is in a lake or test tank when it has back pressure.