Spark dancing all over plug wires?

darylb · Sep 1, 2010

Hi, I Started my outboard engine in the dark and spark was coming out of the wires all over the place. My first thought was to clean the wires or get new ones, the shop told me that the wires were fine and it was not the prob. the plugs were prob. fouling so the spark was finding an easier way out. (something doesn't sound right to me, but what do i know lol ) It is a 1983 50hp 4cyl inline. Has anyone else had this problem or a fix?

Thanks for looking, Daryl

paultjohnson · Sep 1, 2010

Re: Spark dancing all over plug wires?

Um............... did u check plugs? clean/ replace ? retest ?

darylb · Sep 1, 2010

Re: Spark dancing all over plug wires?

New plugs in it and cleaned the wires, just waiting for dark sky to test, but initial starting it was not fireing on all cyl...

j_martin · Sep 1, 2010

Re: Spark dancing all over plug wires?

A fouled spark plug would prevent a bad wire from sparking. Your wires are failing and need replacement. If you don't believe me, just grab one of them with your hand when the engine is running. That'll make a believer out of you.

hope it helps
john

Cogburn · Sep 1, 2010

Re: Spark dancing all over plug wires?

It was St. Elmo's Fire.

Not too unusual.

Did it run ok?

darylb · Sep 1, 2010

Re: Spark dancing all over plug wires?

Cleaning the wires instead of grabbing them (ahem John) seemed to be a better option and also worked...