Johnson 2001 50HP won't start and tilt/trim switch has a problem.

avilaj

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May 6, 2009
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I replaced the solenoid & it seemed to correct the problem for a while but now I have to jump start it at the solenoid. It starts & runs fine after that but still won't start by using the ignition key. Also the tilt & trim switch on the throttle handle will not raise the engine. It will lower the engine and the tilt & trim switch located on the side of the engine works in both directions. Could my problem possibly a bad ignition switch?
 

JB

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Mar 25, 2001
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45,907
Re: Johnson 2001 50HP won't start and tilt/trim switch has a problem.

Howdy, Avilaj.

Welcome to iboats. :)

You probably have some corrosion in connections from battery to engine. The worst offender is where the battery ground cable bolts to the engine block. Even the tiniest bit of corrosion there will cause exactly the troubles you describe.

Remove all connections of battery cables, clean them thoroughly, carefully inspect the cables for weak spots, swellings or visible corrosion. Then reinstall them.

Let us know how it turns out.

Good luck. :)
 

trenth

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Apr 18, 2009
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Re: Johnson 2001 50HP won't start and tilt/trim switch has a problem.

I just fixed the same problem with my tilt/trim switch yesterday. The switch on the throttle only worked down. Not up. Took the throttle handle apart and found a broken wire. I bet you find the same thing on yours.
 

tashasdaddy

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Re: Johnson 2001 50HP won't start and tilt/trim switch has a problem.

there is also an inline fuse near the starter solenoid, it supplies power to the ignition switch and starting circuit.
 

avilaj

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May 6, 2009
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Re: Johnson 2001 50HP won't start and tilt/trim switch has a problem.

I greatly appreciate the info. I'll look into your recommendations this evening.
 

avilaj

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May 6, 2009
Messages
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Re: Johnson 2001 50HP won't start and tilt/trim switch has a problem.

Tilt & Trim switch fixed - Trenth was dead on with a broke wire in the throttle handle.

Starting problem still a no go but closer to resolving the problem I think. The fuse next to starter solenoid checked out okay. Checked all the recommended electrical connections for corrosion but all were clean and secured. However, while checking the connections leading to the back of the ignition switch I tried wiggling them while turning the key. The engine was able to start 3-4 times. I think the problem may be in the ignition switch or one of terminal connections?

Thanks for all of your assistance.
 

JB

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Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: Johnson 2001 50HP won't start and tilt/trim switch has a problem.

"Checked all the recommended electrical connections for corrosion but all were clean and secured."

Not good enough, avilaj. Take them off and clean them. Looking good and being tight means nothing when you have a tinned copper terminal bolted with steel bolts to an aluminum alloy block.
 
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