Spark question

cjac2879

Seaman
Joined
Aug 23, 2009
Messages
64
1988 85 HP
In the never ending search to find my fuel issue, I resorted to pulling off the spark plug wires while running at idle... I pulled the number 2 wire with no issues, and the engine kept running, when I went to pull the number 1 wire, I got my hand around it, and started pulling, then all of a sudden got shocked from the damn thing.. I was careful to not touch any metal butI was standing in a puddle of water with sandals on thanks to the motor running on the ears, but the wires are insulated, is it normal to get shocked while pulling these off, or is it a problem with my boot/wire, and can they be replaced without having to replace the whole pack.

On visual inspection, there are no cracks or such on the boot or wire, but inside looks old and worn

Thanks
Chris
 

jerryjerry05

Supreme Mariner
Joined
May 7, 2008
Messages
18,071
Re: Spark question

The wire is part of the coil.Do a regular spark test.Spark tester $5.99 at Auto Zone. They can be had at any aoto store.
The spark gap should be 7/16".
Check the diaphram,then check the reeds. Have you done a compression test?J
 

Tyty

Cadet
Joined
May 14, 2010
Messages
25
Re: Spark question

Haha I did the same thing in a little aluminum rowboat I got shocked too Im not sure if thats normal either because I know for a fact my coils were bad when I did that test I didnt try it again tho after I replaced them because i heard its bad for the coils when you do that.
 

robert graham

Admiral
Joined
Apr 16, 2009
Messages
6,908
Re: Spark question

Good rule is don't grab plug or coil wires with bare hands while motor is running, use insulated pliers or plug puller. 35K+ volts hurts bad!...
 

cjac2879

Seaman
Joined
Aug 23, 2009
Messages
64
Re: Spark question

The wire is part of the coil.Do a regular spark test.Spark tester $5.99 at Auto Zone. They can be had at any aoto store.
The spark gap should be 7/16".
Check the diaphram,then check the reeds. Have you done a compression test?J

I had 128psi on all 3 cylinders. I am trying one other test before I pull apart the fuel pump.
 
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