reading spark plugs

[hl]

Reading the old spark plugs with the visable electrodes is simple, but the plugs in my 150 Black Max spark plugs does not show the electrodes. How can you read these plugs to check if it is running too rich or too lean?

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: reading spark plugs

You do this by inspecting the piston tops and in older engines it is very hard to do as there is usually a build up of carbon across pistons. Remove the heads and clean them or try to decarbon engine before attempting any jetting. The factory jetting is pretty darn close unless someone has been try to "hot-rod" it.

 

[hl]

Re: reading spark plugs

There is got to be a easier way

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: reading spark plugs

The easiest way is to check which series of carbs you have and if they have correct jet size...Is there some reason you want to check it???

 

[hl]

Re: reading spark plugs

The carbs are factory. I bought the boat this last winter. The boat has had only the basic maintance. This is an 86 model and I was concerned if it was running too rich or too lean. The only problem is it is starting and it takes a long time to warm up. Once it warms up it runs great for the rest of the day.

 

[hl]

Re: reading spark plugs

hey

 

[capslock118]

Re: reading spark plugs

The only problem is it is starting and it takes a long time to warm up. Once it warms up it runs great for the rest of the day.

I'm not qualified to ask but I am curious.

Why is the engine taking too long to warm up a problem? How do you know it's taking too long? I mean relative to what? you said you bought the boat last winter, do you really know what too long is with this engine?

Again, I'm not a mechanic, so the only time I would think to check the mixture ratio is if I see too blue or too black smoke.

 

[Jacket4life]

Re: reading spark plugs

The carbs are factory. I bought the boat this last winter. The boat has had only the basic maintance. This is an 86 model and I was concerned if it was running too rich or too lean. The only problem is it is starting and it takes a long time to warm up. Once it warms up it runs great for the rest of the day.

All I can tell you is my experience, and the advice of most ppl on this board. Replace your plugs every spring. Don't clean them, don't inspect them, don't fool with them, just take them out, throw them away, and put in a new set. Compared to all the trouble of fooling with the carb, the dangers and incovenience of being stranded, and the risk of doing severe engine damage by adjusting the fuel flow too lean, plugs are very cheap.

My issues with outboards have been reduced immensely in the 2 seasons I have followed this advice.

Best of luck!

 

[hl]

Re: reading spark plugs

I was curious how to read these type of plugs. I have a fear of running too lean. I guess its like my daddy use to say "if it aint broke don't fix it. Thanks for the advice. I will use some Sea Foam this week to see if this will help the warm up problem (which takes 10 to 15 minute) and to clean out the fuel system. Thanks again.