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Spark Plug Wire Confusion

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Everard

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I replaced the coils, points and spark plug wires (get spark now), but I can't remember if the longer wire is for the top cyl or bottom of a 6 HP 1976 Evinrude. I get a big bang every now and again, but that's it. Seem fuel starved. I'm rebuilding the carb and replacing fuel pump. First time ever working on an engine, but it has been fun tearing apart and old engine that has not run in 8 years or so.

Maybe my wires are reversed. Any help would be appreciated.
 
I tried both ways without a near start, but rather an occasionally loud bang from the lower cylinder. Once the carb is rebuilt and fuel pump replaced, I want to crank on it with the wires in the correct configuration in order to eliminate unnecessary trial and error efforts (not to mention blisters on my hands).
 
Everard said:
I replaced the coils, points and spark plug wires (get spark now), but I can't remember if the longer wire is for the top cyl or bottom of a 6 HP 1976 Evinrude. I get a big bang every now and again, but that's it. Seem fuel starved. I'm rebuilding the carb and replacing fuel pump. First time ever working on an engine, but it has been fun tearing apart and old engine that has not run in 8 years or so.

Maybe my wires are reversed. Any help would be appreciated.
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If they are the original plug leads, the top one may well have a small metal ring pressed into it 2-3 inches from the plug cap.
 
Thank you for the replay. Yes, there is a bright blue arching spark, but I will get a gap measurement to confirm the proper distance. The remaining possible issues are carb/fuel pump. I tore the carb aprt, but frankly it seemed fairly clean with no clogged orifices. I get the kit Monday and will install.
 
Ha! Welcome aboard.....I'm getting a "big bang" out of this thread. Make sure no wires are pinched anywhere. Did you "twist" the copper core wires all the way into the coils before mounting the coils? Are the coil faces flush with innermost edge of the beveled post? Please don't let them rub your flywheel.......this will create filings that will find their way right to your breaker points. See other post next door here on the 1973 6 hp.....for more "pointers". Carefully clean points with alcohol or even acetone. Why? New points often have a glaze on the contact face which can interrupt your spark. Nail polish remover is acetone....in case you don't have any on your painting supplies shelf. Your wife won't miss a few drops. Use with adequate ventilation. If the head gasket is original, it may need replacement. Don't forget the water pump impeller too. Let us guide you through that work, if needed.
 
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First off thank you for the assistance. I had fixed the ignition after using an OHM meter to diagnose and check each component. Timing and plugs are gapped properly. I am getting spark on both plugs, but I just wasn't sure which spark plug wire went to the proper cylinder. Racerone was kind enough to answer that question.

I have the carb and fuel pump torn apart and cleaning today. Monday I will receive the rebuild kit. I am also replacing the starter roper. The original starter rope carbon dates back to the Pre-Camberian period. I took the re-winder apart, because it was making a terrible sound when recoil. Can't seem to find the cause of the noise.

I will be taking part the lower unit and other areas of the engine after I can just get it to turnover briefly. I just want the carb and re-winder reinstalled before I get medievel on it.

I wish I had another engine to fix while I wait for parts.
 
If you lived closer to Duluth, I'd put you on the payroll.....got at least 100 fixable.....under 35 hp. Fishing season is right around the corner.....small, simple boats are in.....now more than ever.
 
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