Electrical re-wire

[skipatroldave]

Just bought what I believe to be a 1993 GW Invader Bravo 180 with a 3.0l OMC Cobra.

First, can anyone tell me if this is a good boat or not? Floor/carpet are brand new, hull is in excellent shape, gauges/stereo need to be re-wired, and new starter (installed by PO) isn’t functioning properly. Turn the key and “click”.

So, new starter possibly? New solenoid? Wiring will be checked of course. Any tips/tricks on proper re-wire of a water craft? I’m definitely not a wiring guru. I’d appreciate any/all advice!

Thanks for the opportunity to join your community! I hope to learn a lot!

 

[Silvertip]

Jump the starter to eliminate the solenoid and relays. If you don't know how to do that Google is your friend as is U-Tube. Troubleshoot, troubleshoot, troubleshoot, then replace parts. Don't just replace parts hoping to get lucky,

 

[ThomW]

If it was a new starter installed by PO, I would make sure the grounds are clean and connected and that you have a good, fully charged battery before you assume you need a new starter.

As far as wiring goes...that can be a complete crap shoot. It really depends on how many people have been under the dash changing things and how much of a rats nest they have created for you to work through!

 

[poconojoe]

Definitely make sure your battery is up to the task. Sometimes they seem good, but a starter can draw a lot of current and strain a weak battery and that will give you that clicking you describe. Could also be a corroded connection restricting the flow that will cause the clicking.

Could be a bad starter or a wrong starter or it could be mounted incorrectly, loosely or missing a mounting bolt.

Agree with the suggestion of shiny clean connections everywhere. I would check this first after confirming the battery is ok.

I hope the previous owner wired the starter correctly.

If you plan on replacing any of the wiring, be aware that normal house or automotive wires should not be used on boats. Marine wiring is tinned throughout.

 

[skipatroldave]

Battery is brand new. 1000CCA deep cycle marine battery. Should be good there.

I’m going to trace all the wiring and ensure it’s all correct and super clean. I’m also going to try to figure out if it’s the right starter and if so, remove, test, and reinstall. If not, replace.

Wiring shouldn’t be too bad. I’m going to start with one gauge and run new wire to the back. Once it’s all done, I’ll throw it in a loom and tuck it out of the way. I’ve never wired a boat before. If anyone has any tips or thoughts, I’m open to any suggestions! Didn’t realize there was wiring specific to boats, so that’s a good start! Thanks Poconojoe!

 

[poconojoe]

Battery is brand new. 1000CCA deep cycle marine battery. Should be good there.

I’m going to trace all the wiring and ensure it’s all correct and super clean. I’m also going to try to figure out if it’s the right starter and if so, remove, test, and reinstall. If not, replace.

Wiring shouldn’t be too bad. I’m going to start with one gauge and run new wire to the back. Once it’s all done, I’ll throw it in a loom and tuck it out of the way. I’ve never wired a boat before. If anyone has any tips or thoughts, I’m open to any suggestions! Didn’t realize there was wiring specific to boats, so that’s a good start! Thanks Poconojoe!

Yep, and don't use wirenuts or any type of quick connectors if you have to make any connections.
Any connections need to be sealed.

 

[froggy1150]

Also see if you can turn crank with a wrench/socket. I would do that first. At least 1/4 turn so you know it ain't froze up. If po got water in motor and let it rust it will do same thing. Then check battery/starter connections are clean and tight. Then jump solenoid.

 

[skipatroldave]

All good info! Thank you! Motor turns freely, so that’s a plus. Won’t get back to it for about a week. Might be a winter project.

Question: How do it identify the correct starter for this engine and where is the best place to grab one? Again, assuming this engine is OEM, 1993 OMC 3.0 Cobra.

Thanks again mates!

 

[ThomW]

Find the model number on the engine and either do a parts lookup, or post it here and we can help you find the correct starter for the engine.

 

[skipatroldave]

Thank you all for the advice and assistance! I truly appreciate it more than you know! I do enjoy forums and the help they provide from awesome people like you!