chrispratt
Well Known Member
If you’ve never seen a fouled spark plug, this is an example of what one looks like. Note on the right side of the photo the bridged gap between anode and cathode effectively shorting out the plug. On mag check during run-up there was a drop of about 300 rpm followed by a backfire. This is an REM38E used on a standard magneto system and carbureted O-360-A1A. You can also see some carbon buildup on the plug walls in the background. I guess I need to floss my plugs more often Ya think I need to lean a bit more? Sure ruined my plans for the day.
BTW the plug had about 230 hours on it so it was just about due to be changed anyway along with the other 7 (I change my plugs at 250 hours).
On the positive side, while changing the plug I also discovered one of the connecting wires from my Unison Shower of Sparks was not in original condition (see below). Don’t know how this gap between connector and shielding happened; looks like I must have snagged it at some point and put a strain on the wire. A new Faston connector was soon substituted.
That’s why it pays to look around anytime the cowling is off.
Chris
BTW the plug had about 230 hours on it so it was just about due to be changed anyway along with the other 7 (I change my plugs at 250 hours).
On the positive side, while changing the plug I also discovered one of the connecting wires from my Unison Shower of Sparks was not in original condition (see below). Don’t know how this gap between connector and shielding happened; looks like I must have snagged it at some point and put a strain on the wire. A new Faston connector was soon substituted.
That’s why it pays to look around anytime the cowling is off.
Chris
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