1975 Grady white with a 88 evinrude. Wiring difficulties.

[Ol' Grady White]

i just bought a 1975 Grady white Boat. The trim/starter only works half the time, so im guessing that there is a short in the wires. Should i find the wires and replace them of just rewire the whole thing? thanks.

[SparkieBoat]

more likely a short in the trim motor itself or in the switch...some times when you start using it some it will start working better..but do a good visual on the wiring..my guess is it is fine.

[Solittle]

Before replacing any wires get a copy of the OMC shop manual (not the aftermarket ones). It has an excellent wiring diagram.

[wilde1j]

x2 on that

[Joe Reeves]

Trim/Starter? Are you speaking of the Power Tilt Trim electric motor only? If so, you may simply have a faulty intermitent PTT switch.

Also, you say "88 Evinrude". Is this a 88hp Evinrude or a 1988 Evinrude? The year, hp, and make combined would be a great help.

[Ol' Grady White]

yes, it is a 1988 88hp evinrude. well i can turn the key and it will turn over. and the next time i try it, it wont do anything! same with the trim.

[Joe Reeves]

That indicates an intermitent voltage drop, usually caused by either loose cable connection or tight but dirty connections..... a common problem.

Remove and thoroughly clean all cables/wires that pertain to the starting system, and also clean the components that the cables/wires attach to. This includes the actual battery terminals, battery posts, starter solenoid connections, everything.... and do not forget the black battery ground cable at the powerhead.

Let us know what you find.

[Ol' Grady White]

okay, will do! Thanks

[Ol' Grady White]

i cleaned the battery terminals, battery posts, starter solenoid connections, everything you told me to, replaced spark plug wires (they were frayed), and the spark plugs. The motor ran great! thanks