1989 Merc IO starts then dies when put in gear

[erikjohnnelson]

I have a 1989 Bayliner 18' runabout with a 135 Merc IO. I recently pulled it out of storage, filled it with a new tank of gas and "Sea Foam" and started in on land (with the "ear muffs" and hose connected). It ran fine. Brought it to the lake and ran it for about 30 minutes. Shut it down and tried to re-start. It took a bit to get it going. Then it died every time I put it into gear.<br /><br />My father in law has suggested that it may be a "points" problem. I have had 2 classic cars and have replaced the points based distributors on both with electronic units. Could I do this on my boat as well? Could I simply find a 4 cylinder HEI ignition at a junk yard, install a new cap and rotor and put it in the boat? I'm not trying to complicate things, I just want a reliable boat that starts consistantly. If installing an HEI from a car is not the answer, any other suggestions would be appreciated (assuming that the ignition really is the problem...).

 

[achris]

Re: 1989 Merc IO starts then dies when put in gear

Sounds more like a shift cable/cutout switch problem.<br /><br />Check this link.<br /><br /> Shift cutout switch theory <br /><br />Chris...............

 

[Don S]

Re: 1989 Merc IO starts then dies when put in gear

Don't go sticking a bunch of automotive parts on a marine engine unless you know what is safe and legal and what it dangerous and illegal. Carbs, fuel pumps, distributors, alternators, starters, to name a few all have to be marine certified to be used on a boat so you don't blow yourself up.<br /><br />Like Chris stated, your problem is most likely a bad shift cable from the engine to the drive.<br />Here is even more info on it.<br /><br /> http://www.mercstuff.com/howdoi.htm <br /><br />To achris:<br />You back home now, or still traveling all over the world?

 

[erikjohnnelson]

Re: 1989 Merc IO starts then dies when put in gear

Don,<br /><br />Thanks for the feedback on the marine Vs. automotive parts. Never gave it much thought, but what you said makes sense.

 

[achris]

Re: 1989 Merc IO starts then dies when put in gear

Don,<br /><br />Not home, just over the water from you actually. Kamchatka. Will be home in about 10 days.<br /><br />Chris..............

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1989 Merc IO starts then dies when put in gear

Originally posted by achris:<br /> Don,<br /><br />Not home, just over the water from you actually. Kamchatka. Will be home in about 10 days.<br /><br />Chris..............

Good ta See Ya,.. Buddy...................