spark test question

[SirEnvy]

I stopped in my local NAPA, and asked for a spark test. Now, I have seen ones online, and seem very easy, but this one was different. You plugged one end in the boot, and ground it to the motor...and you gap it...so I was lost after I saw that, and flipped it over, and it doesnt tell me what to gap at for an outboard motor. Am I looking at the wrong test, or should I get the one that actually goes one end in the boot, and the other end you stick the plug in?

 

[oldcatamount]

Re: spark test question

Sounds like you were looking at the right type of tester. The gap can vary depending on the motor you are testing but, for the most part, the gap would be 7/16 of an inch and the spark you see should be bright blue and you should hear a sharp "crack".

 

[SirEnvy]

Re: spark test question

the one that they had had numbers, like 20 and 40. Heres the one they had:

https://www.napaonline.com/Catalog/CatalogItemDetail.aspx?R=BK_7002015_0006398590

 

[Wishiniwuzfishin]

Re: spark test question

That is the one you need...one end goes in the spark plug wire boot...the alligator clamp attaches to a good ground. You don't actually use the spark plug when "testing for spark". You are actually testing the coils and wires and ignition system.

And if that is the same tester they sell at Autozone....be careful of the weld where the alligator clip is welded to the "screw". I've had 2 break there on me. I just wired the alligator clamp to the screw....gives me more flexibility with the alligator clamp also.

Just use a tape measure or ruler to set the gap where you want it.

 

[SirEnvy]

Re: spark test question

I actually want to test my coils so ill pick this one up. Ill measure 7/16....all my plugs are kind of dirty except 1. I have an open thread that I want to post in.