Spark Test

[Salty Tricks]

When doing a spark gap test, do you ground out the other spark wires to the block? Will a piece of wire with aligator clips work?

 

[Salty Tricks]

Re: Spark Test

oops. the above is assuming I am using a single line tester

 

[fireman57]

Re: Spark Test

There is a thread with homemade spark tester that is really cool. I'd love to give credit to who made it but I don't remember. The main thing is it needs to jump at least 1/2" to ground and be bright blue. You will also probably hear a snap or crack when it is good.

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: Spark Test

You can ground them out or leave them on the spark plugs (as long as fuel isn't present of course! ). Really, you just don't want to leave them dangling on an engine with CDI ignition, for fear of where the sparks might escape to (ie, sensitive electronics). Aligator clips work fine. Some outboards even have nice little posts cast into the block to fit the plug boot onto.