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Changing spark plugs on Evinrude E-TEC outboards requires a special procedure called indexing, which positions the ground electrode of the spark plug away from the fuel injector nozzle.
If spark plugs are not indexed correctly, the outboard may not achieve top performance and fuel economy.
Use only the specified spark plugs on E-TEC models, both brand and part number.
You can find this information on the ECI, or Emissions Control Information label on the stern bracket.
Set the gap of each spark plug.
Use a black felt-tip marker to mark the top of the base of the spark plug, in line with the OPEN side of the ground electrode.
This mark is used to orient the spark plug with the OPEN side facing the fuel injector.
Use a spark plug socket with a keeper inside.
An ordinary deep socket will allow the spark plug to fall out, possibly damaging it.
To keep track of the spark plug orientation, you can also make a reference mark aligned with the electrode on the socket.
Apply Triple Guard Grease to the gasket surface of the spark plug.
Install the plug by hand, until you can no longer tighten it with your fingers.
Observe the location of the indexing mark.
If it’s in the red zone, the plug probably cannot be indexed for that cylinder.
Try another spark plug.
Check the location of the indexing mark.
If the mark is in the green zone, use a torque wrench to tighten the plug to 15 foot pounds. (20 N·m)
If the mark is in the new green zone, do not tighten it anymore.
If the mark is in the red zone, tighten the plug to 22 foot pounds. (30 N·m)
Always use a torque wrench, and NEVER exceed 22 foot pounds.
Do not use power tools.
You could strip the threads out of the aluminum cylinder head or cause other severe damage.
If the mark does not reach the green zone before you reach 22 foot pounds, the spark plug cannot be indexed for that cylinder.
Repeat the procedure with another spark plug.
Apply dielectric grease to the ribbed portion of each spark plug ceramic and to the opening of each spark plug boot.
Reattach the spark plug leads.
This concludes the procedure.