reeds, plug wires, coil packs, 1988 XR4 150

[johnt]

I have an 88 XR4 150 Merc., original, unmolested and appears to be in excellent condition. My question is, would it help performance to replace reeds/cages, plug wires, coil packs? Would these items be considered normal replacement items (like auto’s)? This motor is 16 years old. Not sure what reeds/cages are but looks like some of them are rubber, which I would think would harden over time and leak? Not trying to hot rod this motor, just want to get it up to speed. Motor does seem to be rough on gas mileage. Looks like I could buy a set of reeds/cages here for about $100. Not sure about coil packs. Boat is a XB2002. Any input here would be appreciated.
Thanks,

[rock]

You might gain a little gas mileage by changing plugs. If the wires look good, don't worry about it. Cages usually last the life of the motor and so do the reeds. If you wanted to change to plastic or Boysens, that is pretty common and is a good safeguard but not necessary unless you hear motor backfiring thruogh carbs. If the motor has set a while, you could probably gain the most by cleaning the carbs. Coils don't really seem to fade, they just screw up when hot or quit all together and then is when you change them. Enjoy boating and use this board often. It can teach you alot.
Rock

[johnt]

thanks for the info Rock, no need to spend money when I don't need to. I have a bad habit of over spending on preventative maintanance on most of my stuff anyway Will install spark plugs.
thanks