wet spark plug

[ali'i]

just got a 1970 Johnson 1.5hp. have cleaned out the gas tank and carb, fresh gas(50-1) new Champion plug (.030) set points (.020.) new plug wire, started after about 20 pulls, ran for about 5 minutes, slowly tried adjusting the hi low, then it died, has fired a few times since but won't run, checked spark plug, and appeared to have water on the electrode, so dried it, replaced, tried 4-5 pulls, fired, that's it, removed plug again, more water on electrode, repeated this over and over, same result, now I am asking, why is there water on the electrode, and could this be why it will now only fire but not start, any remedies? Thanks

 

[RogersJetboat454]

Re: wet spark plug

If you're sure it's water, your head gasket may be shot.

 

[ali'i]

Re: wet spark plug

If you're sure it's water, your head gasket may be shot.

I put a match to the end of the plug before shaking the water off and it didn't ignite, which I am guessing it would have if it was gas, or maybe not?? but if it is water, would a shot head gasket be the only cause?

 

[RogersJetboat454]

Re: wet spark plug

would a shot head gasket be the only cause?

If there is any water in the fuel, that could be a cause.
If there was any kind of crack or split between a water jacket and the cylinder or crankcase, that could be a cause.

Just out of curiosity, did you ever check the cylinder compression?