Spark? Compression? Remote starter? Testing coils? Testing power pack?

richardbrown67@yahoo.com

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Oct 31, 2010
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My engine starts well, warms up, boggs down, and finally dies and won't re-start. I'm suspecting electrical....

Would someone give me some quick tips about checking spark, checking compression, using a remote starter switch, and testing coils / powerpack?

1980 Johnson 70hp 3 cyl

Spark: I have instructions on how to hook up the spark tester tool. But what about anything else? Do I need to unhook the other spark plugs and use jumper wires to ground them to the block? Details, please?

Compression gauge: Do I take out all three spark plugs and ground the plug wires to the block while testing the cylinders? Details, please?

Using a remote starter: It's made for cars, so the instructions don't tell about boats. Is it just a matter of turning the key to the "on" position, hooking the remote starter to the starter solenoid contacts, and pressing the button? Details? I need to use a remote starter because this motor is on a 32' pontoon/house boat.

Assuming my problem is electrical, where should I start testing parts? Power pack? Coils? What else, and how?

I realize this post is probably too long with too many questions, but I'm in a hurry. It's late and I need to get to bed!

Thanks folks.

Richard
 
Joined
Oct 28, 2010
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Re: Spark? Compression? Remote starter? Testing coils? Testing power pack?

When you do a spark check leave all spark plugs in, when doing a compression check take all plugs out and leave the spark checker in place or pull the lanyard. Secondary voltage will be about 40K volts. If using a remote stater put one lead on the Batt +(of the solenoid or the battery) and the other on the smaller Yellow/red lead on the solenoid.
 

richardbrown67@yahoo.com

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Oct 31, 2010
Messages
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Re: Spark? Compression? Remote starter? Testing coils? Testing power pack?

Jefferson, thanks for the reply.

Will you help me a little more...

Spark check - am I to simply hook the tester in and crank the starter, and leaving everything else in place as normal? Or is there more to it? (plug wires, grounds, etc.

Compression check - assume there is no spark tester involved - I take all spark plugs out, hook the compression gauge to a cylinder - got that part. What do I do electrically, exactly? Not sure what you mean by the lanyard.... sorry to be dense, but I don't want to fry something or myself.

Richard
 

JBC2565

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Joined
Aug 31, 2010
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Re: Spark? Compression? Remote starter? Testing coils? Testing power pack?

Greetings Richard.
There is a thread from Tashasdaddy (info below) called top secret file that has 15-20 different tech tips threads listed. Awesome info.
New to this site so don't know how to post thread so maybe type "top secret file" in search at top of page?

Below is information about thread:

March 24th, 2009, 07:38 AM
tashasdaddy
Senior Tech Advisor

Top Secret File

Hope this helps because sure has helped me.
John
 
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