How often To Change Plugs

UNjim

Cadet
Joined
Aug 11, 2009
Messages
29
2000 125 Merc two stroke. Gets very little use, how often should I change the plugs. Thanks for any help!
 

carholme

Rear Admiral
Joined
Sep 4, 2010
Messages
4,845
Re: How often To Change Plugs

The manual states:

Every 100 Hours of Use or Once
yearly, Whichever occurs first
1. Lubricate all lubrication points. Lubricate more
frequently when used in salt water.
2. Inspect and clean spark plugs.
3. Check engine fuel filter for contaminants.
4. Adjust carburetor(s) (if required).
5. Check engine timing setup.
6. Check corrosion control anodes. Check more frequently
when used in salt water.
7. Drain and replace gear case lubricant.
8. Lubricate splines on the drive shaft.
9. Check and adjust valve clearance, if necessary.
10. Check power trim fluid.
11. Inspect battery.
12. Check control cable adjustments.
13. Remove engine deposits with Quicksilver Power
Tune Engine Cleaner.
14. Check tightness of bolts, nuts, and other fasteners.

Spark Plug Inspection
Inspect spark plugs at the recommended intervals.
1. Remove the spark plug leads by twisting the rubber
boots slightly and pull off.
2. Remove the spark plugs to inspect and clean.
Replace spark plug if electrode is worn or the insulator
is rough, cracked, broken, blistered or
fouled.
3. Set the spark plug gap, where applicable. See
Specification Chart.
4. Before reinstalling spark plugs, clean away dirt
on the spark plug seats. Install plugs finger tight,
and tighten 1/4 turn or torque to 20 lb. ft. (27 N?m).

I don't believe I have ever seen a mandatory replacement period for plugs.

Gerry
 

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: How often To Change Plugs

The only plugs I ever replaced on an outboard were surface gap plugs in a Johnny 70. All others got cleaned and gapped annually.
 

NFA

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Nov 26, 2003
Messages
158
Re: How often To Change Plugs

I use Platinums in my Optimax 150, and change them out every second season. I average anywhere from 80-100hrs a season.
 

Jlawsen

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Apr 22, 2012
Messages
810
Re: How often To Change Plugs

If you don't have the owners manual you should purchase one and follow the manufacturers recommendations for servicing your motor. Carholmes, list is right from that manual but there are other important items in it that you should be familiar with. They're inexpensive little books that can save you a lot of time and money.
 
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