Spark test head gasket install

[jobu67]

"I have a 98 Mariner 200 2.5 a

"I have a 98 Mariner 200 2.5 and have isolated a problem down to no spark or head gaskets. The top port spark plug looks like brand new and I am going to first do a spark test and go from there. I bought a tester that the plug wire goes over and then the alligator clip clips onto the block for grounding. Does anyone know where to clip it on the block (thinking its aluminum and not a great conductor)?

2 after a compression test and if it's getting spark, could anyone tell me any info they think will help in changing a head gasket? I know it's 30 psi on the torque wrench...is there any cement or grease used or just compression...what's a good method of cleaning old gasket...should it just come off after all bolts are removed?
I'm a total nube at this but have minimal mechanical expirience.
Thanks for your help,
Joe Reen"

 

[galamb]

"Actually Joe, aluminum is a p

"Actually Joe, aluminum is a pretty good conductor of electricity. Just pick a bolt on the head, scrape a bit of the paint off and hook her up.

The head gaskets go on dry. The old ones are probably well stuck there and will need to be scraped off.

Even with the bolts all out, the head may be kinda stuck there. That's normal. I use a thin metal scraper (like you use to patch holes in drywall) and tap it with a rubber "thumper" right where head meets block to break the seal.

Merc only recommends using oil on the head bolts when you reinstall. Some guys use anti-seize, I prefer the blue, hi-temp thread locker (the blue is the stuff you can remove). Any of those products "lube" the head bolts so they will torque properly."