Posts: 3480
Location: Elk River, Minnesota | Trolling will not hurt the motor, but fouling can be an issue with standard oil. The newer synthetics really shine in this area since they burn cleaner. I have been using Amsoil HP injector oil for a few years now and do a fair amount of open water trolling and have yet to foul a plug.
Opening up the motor after some time is definitely a good practice. It will burn off the excess carbon and extend the life of your plugs. I would not think you would need to change plugs twice in the year, but that is dependent on the amount of trolling you do as compared to higher speed travel. I change my plugs after I have pulled the motor out of storage and opened it up a bit to burn out the fogging oil. Then with a new tank of gas, the new plugs go in, and I am ready for the season.
Amsoil will run about the same price as the manufacturer's brand in most cases...maybe a couple dollars more. It is TCW-3 compliant, so your warranty should be safe as well. you may also find better overall peformance of the motor...it may run smoother and respond better too.
Steve |