85 hp Force solenoid

[Kenny Gordon]

Is there a way to tell which side on the solenoid is positive and which is negative, or does it matter? We need to replace it and don't want to ruin it.

 

[GA_Boater]

Welcome to iboats.

Are you replacing with the same type of solenoid as the original?

Just mark the 3 or 4 wires and put them back on the same studs as the original.

 

[brianq]

I did mine and my neighbor who is a mechanic said it doesnt matter. Just make sure everything thats supposed to be hot stays together and grounded stays together.

 

[jerryjerry05]

It can only work one way.
​If it's hooked up wrong it won't work.
You can't hurt it either(unless you install it with a hammer )

 

[davedag]

Amazing story, my recently acquired 1986 bayliner with 85 force would not key start. Only way to crank motor was jumping main solenoid terminals with screwdriver. Before buying/installing new solenoid I took one from a Craftsman riding tractor to test. When I disconnected the negative terminal from the solenoid it fell apart!!! The insulation was 100% intact but there was no copper wire (only burned out crud) inside. Replaced ground wire to frame and it started up just fine.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Glad it's working.
​Marine parts usually mean more $$