45hp with no spark

[jus4fishn]

I've got what I believe is an 86 45hp Merc outboard with a 4 cyl.. Just starting it for the season. It cranks over but there is no spark. I have a manual and followed the test for the stator and the trigger. Both check out ok. I did have to replace the stator last year and it was fine for the remainder of the year. There is no voltage at the coils although the suggested test on them was ok. I'm wondering if it is in the control box. Is there a way to know if this unit is bad without any major test equipment? Any other ideas of what might be wrong?

 

[8075mercury]

Re: 45hp with no spark

If your ohm meter test for the trigger, stator, and all four coils test ok, then by process of elimination, I think your switchbox is likely bad.

However, before getting a new switch box, I would:
*try disconnecting your kill switch wire to ensure there is not a short to ground somewhere
*check the mercury tilt kill switch to make sure it is not shorting to ground.
*check all of the wiring to make sure you have good connections and no rotten wires.
*check your spark plugs wires for continuity

Others here can offer ways to test the switchbox with a special meter.

Good luck I just bought an '88 45hp and ending up replacing the stator and switchbox before finally getting spark. These are great classic motor and worth fixing!

 

[jus4fishn]

Re: 45hp with no spark

Thanks for the reply. If anyone has some info on testing the switchbox I'd appreciate it. I'd hate to buy a new one and find out that's not it. I'm going to double check everything again before I go down that road.