I want to add a 2nd killswitch to my 1996 Johnson 50

[janul15]

Hello again. Engine started and ran, but won't switch off using killswitch or by turning ignition key to off. This is despite installing a new wiring harness recently. While I try and sort that out, can I add a 2nd kill switch, to allow me to use the boat? I did have one installed a few years ago, working via the wires at the coils, but I can't remember the switch type, or wiring details. Can anybody help?

 

[Chris1956]

If the motor will not turn off with the current ign switch or kill switch, it is not likely their fault. To kill the ign, the black/yellow wire is connected to the ground (black) wire. I suggest you see if that is happening.

In your case, I would look for the black wire in the engine harness and see that it is well grounded to the block or negative battery cable.

The black/yellow wire would be connected to the powerpack at the engine.

A kill switch simply adds another switch connected to ground and your motors black/yellow wire. When tripped, they ground the black/yellow wire.

 

[janul15]

I'll look at those connections, black to ground, black/yellow to powerpack. ( I know I'm not too clever, where and how to connect to powerpack) I have a feeling I previously connected the black/yellow to ground on the engine.

 

[oldboat1]

could use a push-button switch, or add the spring-operated red button (overboard kill switch). The push button would close the ground circuit killing the motor. The red button does the same when closed -- held open for running with a plastic clip.

 

[janul15]

I found the black/yellow wire diconnected just before the power pack. It's probably been that way for years. Now reconnected; BUT my ignition switch has gone bad (no continuity between the two M terminals when there should be). This is my 3rd ignition switch in 3 years- could that broken wire have blown the switch when I've been starting/stopping etc.?

 

[jakedaawg]

Is the boat kept covered? Water gets in the switches and ruins them. There is a drain hole at the base of the threaded barrel. That should face down.

Another way some of my fisherman type customers kill there ignition switches is by pulling 12v off the switch for key on accessories. The proper way is to have a separate buss fed by its own wire from the battery and fused.

 

[Chris1956]

Ign switches should never fail that often. You have some other problem.