I have issues and need help - Evinrude 70 HP

[tomwenz]

In an attempt to replace the ignition switch for my 1981 evinrude 70 hp I inadvertently screwed up the wiring. Actually, in attempt to double check my work I tried to reconnect my original switch but despite my notes, I ended up switching the (C) purple - white stripe wire with the (M) solid black wire. It was turning over just fine but stopped when I pushed in the primer in. After realizing something was amiss, I took it apart and discovered my mistake. Upon making the wiring connection correction I no longer can get it to turn over with the key (with either the old or the new switch).

What happened and what can I do in an attempt to fix this?

 

[jtexas]

Re: I have issues and need help - Evinrude 70 HP

It's ok, when you pushed to choke, you connected the 12V feed from the battery directly to ground, instead of to the choke solenoid. But no need to panic, that circuit is protected by a 20 amp fuse in an inline fuse holder on a red wire up on the port side of the powerhead, running from the big red main wiring harness plug to the starter solenoid. Replace the fuse you'll be back in business.

That should be good for a laugh or two, once you recover...........

 

[tomwenz]

Re: I have issues and need help - Evinrude 70 HP

Thanks "jtexas" - did look at the fuse before posting and it looked ok. Upon getting your response, I used my light meter and discovered I was not getting any power to the ignition switch. So I checked back at the engine and sure enough no power was passing through the big red plug. Despite the fuse looking good, I replaced it anyway and sure enough that was it. I now have power, a boat that starts, it now turns off with the key (reason I switched the ignition switch in the first place), and I'm back on the water - Thanks for the help!