Changing spark plugs and wires?
#1
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How often do you guys change the spark plugs, wires and do a general tune up? Check the timing or anything else. A friend of mine just purchased a boat (97) with 250hrs on it, 454 EFI, 385hp. Had a mechanical survey done and the guy said everything was fine but he should have a tune up done.....wires, plugs, rotor cap? check the timing. The guy wants $250 to do it. Is this a every 100hrs thing or a as needed thing???
#3
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My opinion only:
To maintain optimal performance, you should change the plugs, cap and rotor once per year, but you can certainly go longer. Even a slightly corroded cap and rotor can have a significant impact on top end performance. Plug wires rarely have to be changed because the engine compartment in a boat does not get very hot. He can change the cap, rotor and plugs himself for a grand total of about $40.
To maintain optimal performance, you should change the plugs, cap and rotor once per year, but you can certainly go longer. Even a slightly corroded cap and rotor can have a significant impact on top end performance. Plug wires rarely have to be changed because the engine compartment in a boat does not get very hot. He can change the cap, rotor and plugs himself for a grand total of about $40.
Last edited by Ric232; 06-10-2003 at 08:03 PM.
#4
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I've lost three sets of Mercruiser plug wires in 400 hours. Twin BBC, well-ventilated engine compartment.
I've gotten to where anytime I detect a stumble, I get in with the motors and watch and listen for arcing. It's been the plug wires more times than not.
I've gotten to where anytime I detect a stumble, I get in with the motors and watch and listen for arcing. It's been the plug wires more times than not.
#5
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Ric above is right if you start with good wires like mC below him said they break alot on some boats !!
Plugs and cap and rotor 1 time a year and wires if you use say Taylor Pro series 409's once every maybe 4 years ,there are alot of good hi-po wires out now Taylor I like but their hard to make
MSD is second order from summit ,ect
Plugs and cap and rotor 1 time a year and wires if you use say Taylor Pro series 409's once every maybe 4 years ,there are alot of good hi-po wires out now Taylor I like but their hard to make
MSD is second order from summit ,ect