How to Change Spark Plugs in Pontoon Boat

Changing spark plugs on a pontoon boat motor takes time and precision. However, the task is not difficult. Most pontoon boats have an outboard motor which makes changing spark plugs much different than boats with an inboard motor. Those motors are similar to a car engine, but outboard motors require familiarizing yourself with a new and different engine set-up.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phillips screwdriver
• Gapper
• Socket wrench
• Spark plug wrench

1. Remove the outboard engine motor cover and locate the plugs. Separate the spark plug wire from the plugs one at a time always being very careful to note which wire goes to which plug. If wires get crossed engine will not start or will run very rough.

2. Inspect the plugs to see if they're dirty or clean. Then check the plug to find the brand and size. Always use the recommended size found in the owners manual or spark plug charts from spark plug manufacturers.

3. Use your boat motor's owner manual to determine the gap size. The gap size can also be found from the various spark plug companies. The gap is the amount of space between the plug tip and the central electrode. If the opening is too large or too small it will cause the spark plug to wear out more quickly.

4. Take the spark plug out of wrapper. Using the gap tool, or gapper, to set the gap per the manufacturer's requirement. Place the plug in the spark plug hole in the engine and hand tighten being very careful not force or damage the threads on the plug or in the engine.

5. Tighten the spark plugs with a socket wrench or spark plug wrench until it's secure. Be careful not to over tighten the spark plug because it could break.

6. Replace all the wires you removed in Step One above and re-attach the outboard engine motor cover. You're now ready to start your engine. If the engine doesn't start properly or runs rough, repeat the steps double-checking the wires were re-installed properly and that the gap in the plugs is at the correct mark.

Tips & Warnings

• Spark plugs should be checked annually for proper boat maintenance. Replace them when they've become dirty or cracked.
• Disconnect the battery from the boat engine before doing any work in your boat's motor. This will disengage all electricity and prevent possible electrocution.

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