No 2 plug fouling.

[woywoyboy]

No 2 plug on my Merc 402 40hp is fouling with what appears to be mud - i know it isn't but thats what it looks like. The thing will start after much coaxing and runs really rough and stalls after abt 10 seconds. Fuel and spark appear OK. No 1 plug is fine. It stopped last night in the middle of my local lake after running fine during the day, making me cold, wet and grumpy for the 2 hours it took to get to shore. I am considering scuttling this boat after what it did to me last night. You can imagine the look on my mates faace when I knocked on his door at midnight, looking for a lift back to the other side of the lake so I could bring over the car and trailer to get the thing home.

 

[JB]

Re: No 2 plug fouling.

G'day, Woywoyboy. It sounds like you are getting water in that cylinder. Maybe blown head gasket.<br /><br />You are fortunate to have a mate on the other side of the lake.<br /><br />Good luck.<br />Red sky at night. . . <br />JB

 

[Rex]

Re: No 2 plug fouling.

BOY I HOPE IT A CYLINDER GASKET.<br />ONCE YOU CHANGE IT CHECK THE CARB. AND<br />READJUST THEM.

 

[woywoyboy]

Re: No 2 plug fouling.

Tx J.B. and Rex.<br />This morning I removed the water jacket and found lots of grey sand in this area, in every nook and cranny. I have cleaned it all out and will now study my trusty manual before attempting to remove the exhaust thingo. The sand I found does not instill me with confidence. My local mechanic offered to but me a beer when he finished swearing/laughing after I told him. Off to the pub now for plenty of schooners and watch the footy.

 

[JB]

Re: No 2 plug fouling.

First rate plan, Woywoyboy. Have one for me, mate.<br /><br />Red sky at night. . .<br />JB

 

[woywoyboy]

Re: No 2 plug fouling.

Finally got the powerhead removed but when I tried to take out the bolts holding the exhaust thingo guess what happens ? 2 snap and one strips it head. I think I can drill its head off and the other 2 shouldn't present too many problems when exposed. Before reassembly with new gaskets and bolts should I be on the lookout for anything or test anything ?