up the river, bring a paddle? spark plug question

[Dan Beisel]

I bought my boat because it was cheap and I wanted to fish/ski/play/cruise in my local lake and river. The river (slough)has residences on it and is narrow so it is "no wake" the whole way (few miles long). My one and only outing on it ended in an overheated motor which I believe was caused by water pump/thermostat/crud in the passages.<br /><br />Now that I'm getting close to firing 'er back up again, I had a question(s). Is my motor not happy slowly putting along up this river even with the new pump and thermo? Should I pop in a set of low speed plugs just for these outings (i.e. from L76V to L77J4)? Or should I just clamp on an electric trolling motor, sit on a bucket and steer from the back?<br /><br />Thanks as always,<br />Dan

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: up the river, bring a paddle? spark plug question

When you say you are boating in a slough, are you hitting bottom, and churning up mud, or sand? If not! your engine should not overheat from idling.

 

[Dan Beisel]

Re: up the river, bring a paddle? spark plug question

No, I don't hit bottom or churn up any muck, but I have heard that these motors don't like to idle alot and was wondering if a plug change would help. I guess I could try again and keep a close eye on the motor.

 

[DJ]

Re: up the river, bring a paddle? spark plug question

ajollyrogering,<br /><br />Stick with the L77JC4's. The surface gap plugs do not make that much of a difference, if any, at top speeds.<br /><br />Gap the plugs at .040" and it will idle a little better.

 

[captain spike]

Re: up the river, bring a paddle? spark plug question

jolly rodger......i have a 1969 115 jonny and i dont have a idle problem,new plugs ,a decarb,proper oil gas mixture properly adjusted carbs all help in these old motors. i go up to maine to the songo river and its 4-5 milrs long and have no problems make sure everything is adjusted correctly and you shouldnt have a problem!!!<br /> ***1971 18' winner 1969 115 jonny***