Can the rectifier cause a weak spark?

[niner]

Can the rectifier cause a weak spark at Idle? I have a 1990 60 hp that has been running rich at idle.Tonight I noticed the red wire on the rectifier was burned, not completely thru but the insulation and a few strands of wire. Could this be hurting my spark?
Thanks
Niner

 

[ob]

Re: Can the rectifier cause a weak spark?

I suppose it could if your stator had a short across the separate windings.Have you conducted a spark test at cranking speed to see if each plug lead will jump a 1/2" gap to ground.Is the battery charging with the present condition of the burned lead you decribe?Charging circuit should be producing 13 plus volts with engine running.

 

[niner]

Re: Can the rectifier cause a weak spark?

Spark was good, and the battery is charging, I,m just checking what is making this thing run so rich at idle. The only thing I have found so far was lower than normal compression but they all read the same, hoping it's just my gauge!
Thanks
niner

 

[ob]

Re: Can the rectifier cause a weak spark?

Could just be that the slow speed needle valves on each carburetor are out of adjustment.Determine where each is presently set by seating them lightly in a clockwise direction and counting the exact turns required.Then back them off about 1/2 turn less than they were open and see if your problem subsides.These adjustment needle valves are located on the upper portion of each carb near where it bolts to the intake manifold.