starts, won't start, starts, won't start. help

S

speedy_100

Recruit
Joined
Aug 1, 2006
Messages
1
I have a 1991 Wellcraft, 3L Merc. I turn the key, cranks and starts no problems, runs great. Turn off the engine, Starts runs great. After being on the lake and cranking it maybe 7 times (throughout the day), it WILL NOT start.
Ignition fuse is fine. I have power to everything (pump, horn, guages, radio, etc... ). It is in neutral, it's not overheated.
The first time this happened, I waited a while, (angry), then it started up and I got the boat in.
Today, not so lucky.. (angrier)
Don't know what the problem is. Can anyone suggest anything? Thanks.
 
V

vipzach

Lieutenant
Joined
Feb 15, 2005
Messages
1,283
Re: starts, won't start, starts, won't start. help

Welcome to iboats speedy!

Does the motor turn over when it happens or does absolutely nothing happen?
 
bijou22

bijou22

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 3, 2005
Messages
302
Re: starts, won't start, starts, won't start. help

I have a Wellcraft 21SL 1997 4.3GL and have always found a problem with the gear shift/throttle control in that in occasionally sticks in gear. Next time it wont start, try turning the prop by hand just to check if it is in gear. I find that a sharp movement of the lever gets me unstuck everytime.
 
D

DangerDan

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
May 21, 2005
Messages
260
Re: starts, won't start, starts, won't start. help

Sounds like a solonoid. Try jumping it (IN NUETRAL) next time you have the problem. That will tell you for sure. Or just replace it. It's realatively inexpensive.
 
Don S

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: starts, won't start, starts, won't start. help

DangerDan said:
Sounds like a solonoid. Try jumping it (IN NUETRAL) next time you have the problem. That will tell you for sure. Or just replace it. It's realatively inexpensive.
Click to expand...

Ahhhh yes, the old, "Throw parts at it till it's fixed" method of boat repair. Ya forgot to tell him which of the 2 solenoids you are talking about replacing. But it would sure be a waste of money to change solenoides, neutral safety switches and then buy a new ignition switch just to find out you had a loose wire somewhere that could be fixed for free.
Many times I have found loose connections on NEWLY install swithces.
 
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