Don - Poor Hole Shot / Miss

Don, I have a poor hole shot / miss on my 03 Optimax Serial #ot788871. Started trip before last and progressively has gotten worse to a point where I think it should be easier to locate. Plugs have only 46hrs. Use 'the coctail' EVERY tank. DFI Merc oil. Pulled the plugs and found #4 oily. The rest looked fine. No tracking on the porcelain. Compression check ok 95-105 on all. What's next? Swap coil and wire with another cylinder to see if it moves? My buddy has a boroscope and I thought I should also check the reeds. Your help is always appreciated! http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/popcorn.gif

Spark test would be the next logical step. If you don't have a multi-cylinder spark testing board.... you can utilize a timing light. Clip it to each individual spark plug lead with the engine running at idle, and watch for a clean, steady flash on the light.

Fuel/Air pressure tests, and Fuel/Air pressure LEAKDOWN tests would be next. Dual pressure (liquid or glycerin filled gauges) and service manual recommended.

Reed inspection is also in order (bore scope is a good idea for a "general inspection"... but proper inspection requires removing the intake). http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/wink.gif

Thanks Don. Switched coil/wire, fuel injector and plug with 3 separate cylinders to see if the problem moved. It didn't. Stayed in #4 cylinder. Pulled intake for inspection and found broken reed. Pretty big piece missing. Might have seen this one with the scope. Ordered new Boyesen's. I must drive hard. This is the 2nd reed failure since I have owned the boat. First one at approx 220hrs and this one at 420hrs. Luckily no internal damage. Had fuel line leaking inside rigging tube earlier in the year and I think this contributed to this failure. Is there any way to make the reeds last longer? I use the Merc DFI oil and 'the cocktail' in every tank and perform the yearly plugs/filters/fluids regularly. Thanks for the info as always. I found this forum just after purchasing my boat knowing zero about how these motors worked and through my own need of repairs along with reading the numerous other members needs I have a much greater knowledge and assurance in doing a lot of my own repairs and maintenance. You're a very valuable resource for us!!! http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/thumbsup2.gif

You've covered 75% of the causes of reed failure.... clean injectors, clean direct injectors, and AVOIDING EXCESSIVE RPM'S are the remaining potential causes (lean condition or excessive RPM's).

I've dropped you an IM also.... http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/wink.gif