Hey folks,<br /><br />First time post for me here. <br /><br />I have a nice little old boat, 1977 20 ft Grady White in very good semi-restored shape. I LOVE THIS BOAT!<br /><br />The engine is a 1984 220 HP Yamaha. Now, I realize the engine might be a little tired, but everybody tells me to keep running it until it gives out. It NEVER does! Recently, I had it serviced and the shop guy told me there was no corrosion in the engine at all- Same thing with the drive unit. And the compression on the pistons is fine.<br /><br />So, here is my problem: When I try and start the engine, it fires up with no problem. But the second I let go the ignition key and it pops back the center position, the engine shuts off.<br /><br />Initially, I thought it was a bad key switch, so I changed it and put a brand new one on, same problem is occurring. So I went to the engine and by-passed the Microcomputer Ignition System box by reconnecting the plugs directly to each other. The engine cranked up like a charm and ran fine. The only problem is that the engine won't shut off with the key and I then have to unplug the bypass to shut it off.<br />Plus, I am assuming that there is some kind of benefit to having the Microcomputer Ignition operating normally, but the **** if I know what it is!<br /><br />Now, I had a mechanic remove the separate oil reservoire tank and automatic-mechanism a while back ago so I now mix my own fuel into the gas tank at 50:1 because it broke and was not worth it to fix on such an old engine.<br /><br />I don't think it is the microcomputer unit because I think that if that were the problem, the engine would simply not start at all. Right??<br /><br />A new ignition box for this engine is $1,300.00 and not worth it. <br /><br />Can anyone shed some know-how here?? Suggestions?? I know it is an older model, but I'll keep my fingers crossed hoping that you can help. You see, my wife and I have a 2-year old daughter. As you married guys know out there, $1,300.00 bucks ain't gonna cut it with the Mrs. for an old boat when you have a growing baby!<br /><br />PLEASE HELP!! I haven't fished in weeks and I am showing withdrawal systems!<br /><br />Alfred
