New trick???

[CFO94]

This is to pass on a "last chance" attempt to start your O/B with low batteries, and at the same time an inquiery as to the damage it might cause. <br />After a four day island camping trip, I found the batteries just able to turn over my 200 hp Yamaha. It historically won't start easily if it doesn't spin over good. Fearing the worst, I went to a trick I learned by accident a while back when it wouldn't start. I was checking for spark by removing one spark plug and cranking the engine. It fired up immediately and continued to run. After shutting it down and replacing the spark plug, it started easily (warmed up). I've used this technique a few times and its always worked. Its gotten me started when there was no way the engine would have started otherwise. I presume the reduction in compression allows the engine to spin over faster, and possibly the introduction of more air might assist the initial start-up. I don't let the engine run minus a plug more than about 20 seconds. <br />Any thoughts/concerns about this procedure?

 

[12Footer]

Re: New trick???

You do what you gotta do. 20 seconds isn't gonna hurt it.And when you are in a bind like that, you do whatever it takes. Consider a dual battery switch. The cheap ones are around 10 bucks,and another battery can be a lifesaver.

 

[Pursuit2150]

Re: New trick???

I have 2 batteries.Here is something an old salt told me years ago. Start with both, and switch to #1(odd date) & #2 (even date).When you run you are charging 1 or 2,and the equal charge on both will work.Just another trick to prolong Bat. life. CF, I saw you had 2, I only passed on another tip!

 

[CFO94]

Re: New trick???

You didn't notice I said batteries? I have two, both wouldn't crank it. I know, time for new batts.<br />Just wanted to pass on a possibility to help out all you guys that have helped me out before.

 

[CFO94]

Re: New trick???

Your reply brings up another question. Will running with the switch on the "both" position not charge both batts? Also, when charging with a A/C charger at home, can both be charged at once by setting the switch at "both"?

 

[petryshyn]

Re: New trick???

Yes......and yes,.... But.....its OK to have the batteries connected together when using a wall charger, but they should be electricaly isolated from the boat system when doing so. Unregulated chargers can drive the voltage up and damage any connected accessories or ECM's (even if the acc. are shut off.....)<br /><br />Oh, by the way......neat trick!!<br /><br />

 

[Pursuit2150]

Re: New trick???

Running with the switch on both will charge both! But when I charge at the dock, the switch is off, and I charge 1 Bat. at a time.

 

[Rex]

Re: New trick???

COULD BE BAD ON THE ROD BUT YOUGOT TO DO<br />WHAT EVER IT TAKES AT THE TIME.<br />REX

 

[harrison20002]

Re: New trick???

CF094--- Just a short note on my solution to a similar problem. In 1986 I bought a 115hp Merc. While exploring my new treasure [before it was even in the water], I pulled the cowling off and neatly rolled up and in a baggie, was a STARTING ROPE, Went down that afternoon and bought two new deep cell batteries. Never did unrap that rope. Happy Boating Hal

 

[DJ]

Re: New trick???

In effect CFO what you did was create a compression release. Good thinking.<br /><br />If anyone has ever tried to start a big outboard with one of those ropes, Id try anything but too.

 

[12Footer]

Re: New trick???

You can chrage both batteries at once, but then, if you have a bad battery, you may end-up with two. A bad battery will continue to charge when it can't accept it.This means that both batteries will continue to charge after full-charge has been reached,which will soon ruin the good one<br />.<br />It's best to charge one at a time, but just as leaving the plug out, you run the real risk of forgettin to swiotch them over...Hence, one dead, one charged battery

 

[Grizzly]

Re: New trick???

DJOHNS19, I have started a good sized Mercury using the little rope under the cowl. (I believe was a 125, but my Clymer doesn't list this,it could have been a 115.) I was younger and had a 17'Glasstron I used for skiing. After repeated starts the motor would barely turn over. The routine went as follows: I would turn the flywheel up on a compression stroke, then wind the rope up tight. Using both hands, I would snatch the cord while my buddy turned the switch, using what was left of the battery. It took repeated attempts, but the old girl would finally fire up. Sure wish we had known CFO94's trick, the knot in that rope left many a welt on my back as it came over my shoulder. -G........P.S. Some body help me here I'm almost sure it was a 125 HP. My manual only covers 72-84, this one had to be made before that. Thanks.