Trolling ok?

[Meach]

Ok so I had a 96 Bayliner with the Merc 120 Sportjet. I use to troll fishing all the time my buddy had the same boat and did so I never questioned it. Now I have a Seadoo Speedster with twin 85's and im wondering if its ok or not. Basically the engines just idle for an hour or so at a time after being warmed up on the run out to the fishing hole. I was wondering if fouling plugs or overheating might occur... Im clueless and know you knowledgeable captains can set me straight.

Thanks

Mark

 

[Coastiejoe]

You will want to go for a run to burn off any oil that may build up after idling for an hour, but you should be fine. You shouldn't overheat as long as your impeller and wear rings are good.

 

[Dr Honda]

If it's running right... it can idle all day. BUT... it will get Smokey.

 

[Meach]

If it's running right... it can idle all day. BUT... it will get Smokey.

Thanks for the great info guys. Was hoping to go trolling this weekend but now it might rain?

 

[Meach]

Is there any reason I should use both engines when trolling? Common sense says probably no reason to but I wanted to check with the experts just to be sure!!!

 

[Coastiejoe]

One or both, whatever is needed for trolling speed. If you were to surpass 15 MPH then both as you can force water into the non-running exhaust and then into the engine. When you would crank to start it, it would suck the water into the cylinders.

 

[MLars]

The only reason I could think to use both is even engine wear. I would just switch off engines each day.