Re: omc seadrive outboard 1.6l 2 carbs 1987 perhaps 84 not sure
Get a screw in type compression gauge with a 14MM short head. Take all the spark plugs out and screw in the gauge to one of the holes. Crank the engine several turns and write down the reading. Do all 4 holes.
The cylinders are numbered top to bottom starting with one at the top right, two at the top left and so on.
Be consistent in the time given to cranking so you can compare the readings with each other.
You can ground the plug wires by pulling the emergency lanyard so they won't fire.
For a spark test, you want the ignition system to be free to run as fast as possible, so you take all the plugs out and use a tester that will allow you to set a gap of at least 3/8", preferably 7/16". You can purchase a single plug tester at an auto parts store with an adjustable gap. Ground the other plug wires to the engine block if you use this method.
Each wire should jump agap of 7/16" with a sharp blue snapping spark.
If the engine is running, you can test for spark using an inductive timing light.