Two rookie questions

Jeb · #1 03-15-2016, 08:25 AM

Hi all,

I mentioned in a thread yesterday that I just brought home an '84 V20. I have a couple rookie questions that I would love your insight on.

- The seller gave me a support bracket - maybe called a "transom buddy"? - that transfers weight from the skeg to the trailer. Is it okay (for now) to leave this brace on and store the boat like this for a few weeks until I launch? The motor is tilted into a semi-upright position. Any harm in this for now or is it important that I take it off and store with the motor down? Long run, I imagine I'll just store with the motor in downward position.

- I'm struggling to figure out which spark plugs and thermostats to order. The motor is an '89 Merc Black Max 150. When looking at charts, it seems that in '89, they just made one 150. But then other resources suggest that there were xr-2, xr-4, xr-6 versions in this period. I can't figure out which mine is and I want to avoid ordering the wrong stuff. The numbers: OC157669 There are no markings on the cowl which would suggest xr-anything... Any suggestions for the best plugs for me to order? Is there any difference between these models that would necessitate different plugs?

Thanks so much. I'm new to the forum, but it's easy to see how helpful you guys are. I look forward to learning.

smokeonthewater · #2 03-15-2016, 02:24 PM

Take the transom saver off and drop the motor to vertical if the is ANY possibility of sub freezing weather. Any precipitation accumulating and freezing in the exhaust of the lower unit can be $$$$

Jeb · #3 03-15-2016, 06:49 PM

I did this. Thanks. "The forecast says we won't drop below 40 in the next week or so...", he said to himself before remembering that he lives in f'ing New England.

scook · #4 03-15-2016, 07:11 PM

The other guys know a lot more about this than I do but with the model/serial number, I'd think a good marine parts guy could look up and tell you what you need.

spareparts · #5 03-15-2016, 08:44 PM

you've got a 150, the xr's were performance versions
Use NGKBU8H plugs, do not use anything other than NGK plugs, and before you ask, unless the insulation is coming off the plugs wires, they will be OK

Jeb · #6 03-16-2016, 06:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spareparts

you've got a 150, the xr's were performance versions
Use NGKBU8H plugs, do not use anything other than NGK plugs, and before you ask, unless the insulation is coming off the plugs wires, they will be OK

Nice. Thanks