Running you Main moter at idle for trolling?.

[Wildlifedesigner]

I have been running my 1981-83 40 hp mercury at about 1000 rpms for trolling. I have heard this is bad for two strokes, and then agian I have heard it does not harm the moter, it may just fowl the plugs. What are you ropinions on this. Thanks

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Running you Main moter at idle for trolling?.

do a decarb now and again and keep the motor tuned anbd maintained and 1000 rpm is candy. my 120 jonny will do 650 for several hours at a time them 4900 for the 12 mile cruise back to the dock. the key is well maintained. that means t-stats and water pumps and pressure control valve and fuel pumps and clean carbs and fuel systems all before it "needs" it. the only problems I ever encountered with a 40 2 cyl is the exhaust divider plate may blow holes through it and the top starter bracket like to snap off. other than that they were good little motors