How to remove spark plugs

[Tbone17]

I am wondering how to remove spark plugs on a 220 crusader engine do I have to remove the risers to remove them or can I just unscrew them out?

[Viper]

Except for accessibility to the side of the engines in some boats, the only engine I've ever had an issue getting to the plugs because of the exhaust manifolds is a particular OMC design. Even with clear access this design is a PITA, no exaggeration here and one could expect to pay dearly to have someone else do it. I don't see any reason for difficulty on a Crusader that I can remember. Getting to the area though may be a challenge in some applications if they're too close to fuel tanks for example but the engine's hardware shouldn't impede access.

[km1125]

Not sure on the 220 engines, but some engines it is handy to have a spark plug socket with a built-in swivel. The other thing that's handy is a 12 point 13/16" offset box wrench. Also, get a short (maybe 6") section of hose that fits tightly on the insulator of the plug... once you get them broken free, you can spin it the rest of the way out with the hose, and start the new one back on the same way.

[Tbone17]

Thank you

[SplashyLady]

Try to find a plug socket with the rubber grommet inside to hold the plug for insertion. It will save you a lot of time and cuss words when the plug falls out of the socket and you are trying to find it under the engine.

[km1125]

Also, another suggestion for working on areas that are hard to get to....

Get an old beach towel or small blanket and put that under the area you are working in. it will catch parts that fall and they won't roll or bounce into areas never to be seen again.

[mjk1040]

A reinstall trick I use is an old spark plug boot on a 3/8" bolt. It gives you flexibility and the ability to feel the spark plug hole and you won't cross thread the new spark plug.

[Cooler]

You may want to pull an easy one first, and make sure the plugs are marine plugs. The PO of my Mariner had a marina change plugs 3 years before he sold, and the marina used regular automotive plugs. Had to deal with some rusted plug collars. When I talked to the PO after that, he said they charged him $6 a plug, but used 75 cent parts. er