Spark Problem

I have a 2000 115 Johnson Seahorse J115VXSSS and Im' having trouble diagnosing a problem Im' having with the spark. When I start the motor it will start and than die instantly. When I try to turn start it again it will do the same thing or not start at all. I checked for spark and found Im' only geting spark 50% of the time. I've replaced the ignition switch but that did not help. Any help would be appreciated.

Re: Spark Problem

I have a little more information to add. When I'm' not getting spark it is over all the cylinders not just some of them. I have ordered the points but I'm' not sure how to test the power pack or coils. It does seem to be the solenoid because the starter runs fine.

Re: Spark Problem

Test for spark with all of the plugs removed, using a test device. You want a sharp blue spark across slightly less than 1/2 inch. You can get a tester here at iboats or at your local automotive parts store.

http://www.iboats.com/mall/index.cg...keywords=SPARK+TESTER&submit.x=21&submit.y=10

You can make something similar yourself as well.

Once you know that your system is capable of generating a good spark with no load on it, you can move on to more important issues, like getting the RPMs up high enough to generate a spark with a load.

If you want to have a ignition system guide, go to Rapair.com and download their pdf troubleshooting guide. It is over 60 pages, but full of helpful information. Navigate to product info, downloads, troubleshooting guide.

Re: Spark Problem

Thanks I'll give it a try. What I suspect will happen is that I will see a good spark some times and sometimes I will see no spark but I will give it a try after work.

Re: Spark Problem

go to 'boatpartstore.com' click outboard trouble shooting, and follow prompts several test you can do to eleminate things.

Re: Spark Problem

rkore said:

Thanks I'll give it a try. What I suspect will happen is that I will see a good spark some times and sometimes I will see no spark but I will give it a try after work.

Click to expand...

I'll try these trouble shooting techniques. One problem is when the engine starts to fire the starter disengauges like it is supposed to do so I can never tell if the spark is continuess or if it stops after a few cycles. Thanks for the links.

Re: Spark Problem

I'm giving an update in case any body has the problem I described.

It turned out the point sensors were bad. Once I replaced these the engine works great.