Mercruiser (Reversed Polarity)

[RGS]

I recently did a very stupid thing. I bought a new battery on way to lake and replaced in the parking lot of auto parts store. The store clerk placed the Red and Black rubber booties from old battery on wrong terminals of the new one and i did not notice it as i was hooking it up.

I then installed the battery with the polarity reversed and turned on the main power switch. I quickly realized my mistake when nothing happened when i turned key. I usually get a long beep in that position before trying to start.

I quickly unhooked battery but could not find Circuit breakers or fuses blown. Any ideas?

2003 Chaparral 220 Mercruiser 5.0

 

[Don S]

Re: Mercruiser (Reversed Polarity)

There is a square fuse that looks like the picture below, that is mounted on the starter solenoid. It's not one you can look at and tell if it's blown.

 

[RGS]

Re: Mercruiser (Reversed Polarity)

Yes, i did remove that but manual referred to it as a 90 amp fuse and after taking it apart i was baffled. Is that all it is? Just replace and go? or should i check for anything else.

thanks for help.
Russ

 

[Don S]

Re: Mercruiser (Reversed Polarity)

Like I said, it's not one you can look at and see if it's bad. Use a meter and test for voltage at both terminals (with the battery cables attached).
But, if you have it taken apart, then it dead for sure, yes it's 90A, and you need a new one.

 

[RGS]

Re: Mercruiser (Reversed Polarity)

OK. Will Do. thanks again for the advice and assistance!

Russ
Grapevine, TX

 

[Coors]

Re: Mercruiser (Reversed Polarity)

The largest terminal is positive, always.

 

[RGS]

Re: Mercruiser (Reversed Polarity)

Don,
Thanks again. Replaced the 90amp fuse ($22.00 part) on starter per your diagram and fired right up.

Think i will go to lake tomorrow!