1978 Johnson-Evinrude Electrical Issue

[KressA223]

I have a 1978 Monarch Mcfast with a 1978 Evinrude 70hp with a electrical problem. When I turn the key to the start position for the motor to turn over, the fuse in the motor blows. I have tried new solenoid, new power regulator, new battery, checked all wires for a short, and tried checking the ignition coils. I am lost because nothing has worked. I know the starter is still in good condition because hooking battery cables to it starts right away. If anyone has any ideas, it would be greatly appreciated.

 

[racerone]

Coils would have nothing to do with blowing the fuse !--Remove small red wire from sonenoid.------Use a jumper wire from the solenoid and run 12 volts to the battery terminal on ignition switch.----Test again.

 

[saltchuckmatt]

I agree with race.....he will put you in the right maze to fix and learn about this problem.

 

[Crosbyman]

https://maxrules.com/graphics/omc/wiring/78-84_3-CYL_EL.jpg

 

[airshot]

Ran into a similar issue with my Merc last summer....long story short is, I traced all the wires under the hood looking for rubs, bare spots etc. Sure enough one wire was stretched over a grounding screw. Wire had a heavy cover where it touched the screw, but very carefull examination showed a tiny little rub spot/ or hole about the size of a mosquito head. Slight discoloration is what brought it to my attention. Added a small piece of plastic and some heavy duty tape to recover the pin hole and all was good. Just a tiny hole worn thru to cause a direct short that would blow the fuse the minute the key was turned !! Not saying that is your issue, but some very close examination might be needed. Good luck...

 

[ct1762@gmail.com]

sounds like you ruled everything out but the key switch

 

[Tassie 1]

Find a motor wiring diagram and check that your starter solenoid wiring is the same.
If one wire is on the wrong solenoid lug that will blow the fuse every time.time

 

[saltchuckmatt]

sounds like you ruled everything out but the key switch

I agree, and that's what my money's is on.