What is the running concern if a reed valve has a rust hole in it?

[rainbro]

I have a 1987 mercury 9.9.The engine runs perfect at full speed.At very low speed (trolling),I cannot get it to idle.I took the carburetor off to clean when i looked at the reed valves.Two had corrosion.I took out the reed assembly and held it up to light.There is a pinhole rusted through.I have two identical engines and checked compression.This engine has 90 psi and both are even.My other engine has 100 psi.so I think the compression is ok.What does everyone think?

 

[JB]

Re: What is the running concern if a reed valve has a rust hole in it?

A pinhole probably doesn't interfere much with good scavenging, but a rusty reed has lost its flex. Replace them. If it breaks off it can destroy the rest of the engine.