2000 Honda 90 No Spark

[bojango541]

Hello,

I recently bought a 90 HP Honda 4 stroke, approximately a year 2000 model. It is the engine only, no controls. The guy told me the compression was a little off but it still ran. It just did not get full power. The compression checked out as he stated. I jumped the starter and did not see any spark on any cylinders. Could this have something to do with the motor not being hooked up to controls? The guy I bought it from described everything else accurately, so I'm wondering if theres something else thats simple that I am missing?

 

[hondam]

Two things, Compression tests on these motors are different then what most people are used to, you must hold the engine at WOT while cranking the motor or else it will throw off the readings. A leak down test usually produces more accurate results.

Ignition problems are extremely rare with Hondas. I dont usually work on Hondas without controls I guess it is possible that it may be causing your issue. Just make sure your using the NGK DR7EA spark plugs and a timing light when checking it, with the metric spark plug boots unless you have the adapters normal spark checkers can sometimes give inconsistant results.

 

[bojango541]

Thanks for the quick reply. To check spark, all I did was pull out the plug and wile in the plug wire, jumped the starter and held it against one of the bolts on the motor. Usuaully works for me on other outboards, but I'm not too familiar with the 4 strokes

 

[hondam]

Yeah that should work but is not how I do it. I don't know what it about doing it that way but there are a times I get a motor in with "no spark" after testing it that way that in fact do have spark. I'm not saying that's the case here just saying it might justify a closers look to confirm it.

If you continue not to have spark might be time to get out the DVA meter. Also make sure the engine is in neutral when cranking some Hondas will not start in gear even crossing the solenoid.