Outboard will start WITH jumper cables only!

Christobol

Cadet
Joined
May 8, 2009
Messages
20
I've got an Evinrude 35 hp 1976. Would not turn over at the lake. Put jumper cables on and it turned over. The solenoid seems to click a few times when I push the start button and then, nothing. Any ideas? Thanks, Christobol.
 

ezeke

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 19, 2003
Messages
12,532
Re: Outboard will start WITH jumper cables only!

Battery cables are the most likely problem; they corrode inside the sheathing where you can't see it. You can usually find the source of such resistance by the heat after cranking, but make sure that all of your power connections are clean to bare metal (yes, you will have to disconnect them and brush).
 

Boss Hawg

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Joined
Apr 9, 2009
Messages
1,433
Re: Outboard will start WITH jumper cables only!

Battery cables are the most likely problem; they corrode inside the sheathing where you can't see it. You can usually find the source of such resistance by the heat after cranking, but make sure that all of your power connections are clean to bare metal (yes, you will have to disconnect them and brush).

Agree, i'm sure we're assuming you have a fully charged cranking battery:rolleyes:
 

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Nov 11, 2005
Messages
51,019
Re: Outboard will start WITH jumper cables only!

90% of starter problems are bad connections. remove and clean both ends of the battery cables, so that they are shiney, also the cable from the solenoid to starter. check for nicks in the cables. and make sure the connectors are on the wire good. the cable tend to corrode from the inside out, if nicked, corroded wires, and connections, heat up and cause resistance to the follow of electricity, thus the starter doesn't get enough. you can also take jumper cable pos battery post to large post on starter. with a good connection, the engine should spin. then if the starter is good clean everything and retest. then trouble shoot solenoid. starters can be rebuit at a starter/alternator shop, much cheaper than a new one.

also have the battery load tested at the auto parts store, free, i've had new batteries go bad
 

kenmyfam

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Aug 10, 2006
Messages
14,392
Re: Outboard will start WITH jumper cables only!

Connections bad, battery cables bad or bad battery. Or any combination of these items.
 

Christobol

Cadet
Joined
May 8, 2009
Messages
20
Re: Outboard will start WITH jumper cables only!

Yep, negative ground from battery to engine was loose and corroded. Cleaned and made tight and now it turns over:p thanks for all your help. Christobol.
 
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