1987 4.3 Olds w/ OMC Maintenance Question

[md-lucky]

Pretty simple question, so please don't laugh at me.

I'm very mechanically inclined when it comes to Diesel engines. But, I have very limited experience with gasoline stuff.

I have a 1987 Thundercraft with the 4.3 Olds and an OMC drive. I just want to do a basic tune-up to the engine.

From what I can tell, there isn't a lot of difference between this engine and one found in a car. (At least when it comes to ignition.)

What spark plugs work best in this application?

I'm considering something like these:

http://www.boschautoparts.com/Products/SparkPlugs/Platinum4

Thoughts?

If I pull a plug and take it down to my local auto parts store, should they be able to determine which plug will work best for me based on those part numbers? Or, am I going to have to get a special "marine" plug for this application (marine meaning that this engine is so specific to boats that I can't find an automotive equivilant)

Thanks in advance for your help!

 

[o-jay]

Re: 1987 4.3 Olds w/ OMC Maintenance Question

For things like plugs, oil filters, etc. you should be able to just use regular automotive stuff. Points won't work though - I usually have to go through marine stores for those.

For lots of other things, mostly electrical, you should probably stick w/marine. The primary concern being exposure of spark under the engine housing - a boat's engine compartment is more sealed and fumes are more likely to accumulate...BOOM! So for starters, alternators, distributor, cap, wires, circuitry - stick with marine parts.

Same general comment when it comes to internal and engine parts. I understand that the marine versions of these engines are absolutely not interchangeable with automotive. Things like bearings, journals, etc are different on marine, so no swapping blocks, heads, etc.

Good luck!

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1987 4.3 Olds w/ OMC Maintenance Question

I have a 1987 Thundercraft with the 4.3 Olds and an OMC drive.

Ayuh,...

You might have a Thundercraft,...
And,..
It might be OMC powered,...
But,...
What you're calling an Olds, is a Chevy.....

That said,... Chevy has been using the AC Delco R43T for all their motors since Christ was a pup...
I'd suggest you go with the MR43T sparkplugs which are the Marine equalivant,...
The "M" means it's an Alloy body, which don't Rust in place....

Throwing money for some Fancy Smancy plugs are a Waste of gas Money....