Dies when key is released.

[FourWinns76]

93 FourWinns 210 Horizon with 5.8efi. Boat ran fine 2 weeks ago. Last weekend the engine would turn over and start, but when I released the key to run it died. If I held the key in start it started and idled. As soon as the key is released it died again. I have replaced the ignition and it did not fix it. I have 12 volts in and out of the 20 amp fuse at the fuel pump with the key in run. When I turn the key to run there is no sound though from the fuel pump. It always used to run for a couple seconds after turning the key. Any ideas? Local mechanics are booked up for a couple weeks so I figure I may as well give it a shot.

 

[Grub54891]

Check for power at the coil with the key on but not running. If none, check the cannon plug on the motor and make sure the connections are clean and the plug is inserted completely. That's just a starting point for diagnostics.

 

[Lou C]

I’d also check for power at the ignition switch terminals. B terminal = battery bolts, I terminal = ignition battery bolts when you turn ignition on, S terminal = start gets battery bolts when you turn the key to start. Make sure the I terminal is not losing voltage.