Hi all, I'm normally over in the Yammy and boat building areas but a friend has asked if I could take a look at his 4HP Merc for him. Just searched and couldn't find much that could start me in the right direction. From what I've seen here, it looks like it's either early 70's or late 60's? it has blue stripes and SN# 7086213<br /><br />The situation:<br />-it seems to be getting fuel to the cylinders. After many pulls I feared I'd flooded, so I pulled the plugs to check. It wasn't firing, the plugs were wet (so I "could" have potentially flooded it). I cleaned and dried off the plugs, let things sit for a bit and tried again to no avail. Due to the "wet" plugs, I'm thinking it's safe to assume fuel is getting where it should<br /><br />-so is it likely I'm not getting spark? silly question, but what would be my best way to check?<br /><br />I noticed in one post that it was mentioned that the coils and condensers have a tendancy to go bad on these engine? I don't have a manual for this engine. Can anyone provide me with some info for testing them?<br /><br />Are there any other thoughts as to what (and how) I can check for anything else to work thru a process of elimination in an attempt to get it running?<br /><br />thanks in advance,<br />Craig
<br /><br />To test for spark, unplug one of the sparkplug leads, and insert a screwdriver that fits. Hold the screwdriver 1/2" away from something metal on the engine and have someone else pull the starter. You should get a bright strong spark.<br />If you don't get spark, disconnect the kill switch (One of the orange wires going to the powerpack on the side of the engine) and try again. If the engine starts, you'll have to choke it to stop it.<br />Another thing is to closely examine the wires, checking for deteriorated insulation.<br /><br />I've still got some notes from when I fixed up my brother's GNAT some time ago. There's nothing in them relating to ignition, just timing, and torques, but if you want them email me at