How to troubleshoot ignition problem

jspringator

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
May 27, 2006
Messages
415
My 89 Bayliner was climbing onto plane when the motor suddenly died. Would not re-start. I'm guessing ignition problem. It turns over but won't catch.

I know enough to check the kill switch, but what else do I check? I was pretty high up, so something could have slid backwards and hit something causing the problem.

I have an extra keyed ignition switch. Should I try that? Is it fused? I failed to check if the gauges came on with the ignition switch on.

Any suggestions will be welcome. My boat is 2 hours away, so I want to be prepared when I go down there.
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: How to troubleshoot ignition problem

Click here, and have a look at item 17.
 

jspringator

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
May 27, 2006
Messages
415
Re: How to troubleshoot ignition problem

Does anybody know where the wiring plug to the engine is on the OMC 5.8L? I'm thinking a sliding battery box knocked something loose.
 

jspringator

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
May 27, 2006
Messages
415
Re: How to troubleshoot ignition problem

Boy was I wrong! The base of the spin on fuel filter (where the rubber seal meets the filter body) was corroded, breaking the seal, causing the fuel system to suck air. What a bizarre issue.
 
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