I've been having performance issues recently manifested by loss of power/rpm in neutral and under load and slight pinging when under load. I have been racking my brain trying to figure out a solution and have done many things like new cap, rotor, plug wires, timing set, new wet exhaust. I also have a new carb on order due to a stripped out and non-functional idle mixture screw (carb threads broken). I have also noticed quick fouling of plugs. I don't think elevated exhaust back pressure due to obstruction is a problem as when motoring in neutral at 2000rpm, the water shoots 8 to 10 feet behind the boat. One thing I noticed recently is that when I was running the engine with the compartment open (companionway stairs off), my carbon monoxide detectors both had readings of at least 60 after about 10 minutes of operation - I have 2 detectors: one near the engine compartment and one all the way up in the v-berth. When the engine compartment is closed up and the blower is on the readings sit at 0. The reason this caused me concern is that when I first bought this boat 1.5 years ago, I was real paranoid about carbon monoxide fumes killing passengers sleeping in the cabin during my twice yearly 20+ hour motoring trips. So, I held one of the carbon monoxide detectors right by the exhaust flange for about 10 minutes with the engine running. The reading never got above 20. I read that anything over 30 is not good. So, I'm thinking that the only way these readings could be elevated at this point is if the flange and/or manifold gaskets are failing. I'll bet it's prudent to replace these gaskets even if this doesn't solve my performance issues. A couple questions:
1) Any thoughts on this or has anyone had carbon monoxide issues coupled with performance issues and replaced these gaskets?
2) Do you use any type of gasket sealant on these gaskets?
3) My manifold access prohibits me from using a torque wrench on the manifold nuts and I read they should be torqued to 25 lbs. Should I just make 'em tight?
Thanks for reading.
1) Any thoughts on this or has anyone had carbon monoxide issues coupled with performance issues and replaced these gaskets?
2) Do you use any type of gasket sealant on these gaskets?
3) My manifold access prohibits me from using a torque wrench on the manifold nuts and I read they should be torqued to 25 lbs. Should I just make 'em tight?
Thanks for reading.
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