Is there anyway to check the ignition with a multimeter?

[matt88]

I have an 82 2 stroke 30hp tohatsu and has all of a sudden become very hard to cold start. Before it would fire cold in 1 to 3 pulls everytime and now like if someone had flicked a switch its all of a sudden hard to start cold. Replaced plugs,it is getting fuel so the only other thing that I would think it would be is the ignition box. The plugs are not firing at all when cold and after a little time gets invested in trying to start it will fire up and run like a champ the rest of the day and will start on the first pull the rest of the day. Im thinkin this is either a short in the wiring or the ignition box. Was wondering if someone could tell me how to test the box,thanks.

 

[pvanv]

Re: Is there anyway to check the ignition with a multimeter?

This is usually a fuel issue. Get a Factory service manual, which will describe troubleshooting, including the CDI.

 

[matt88]

Re: Is there anyway to check the ignition with a multimeter?

I didnt think it would be a fuel issue because when I pull the plugs out when I am having this problem they are wet,but maybe there not getting enough fuel. Will try to locate a manual. if anyone knew that procedure for the cdi off the top of their head though that would be great,thanks.

 

[matt88]

Re: Is there anyway to check the ignition with a multimeter?

Ok, so the plugs are not getting fire. This I am sure of. Anyone know how to check the cdi box on my motor???

 

[matt88]

Re: Is there anyway to check the ignition with a multimeter?

Also,would anyone know if the 82 model year had points or an electronic ignition?

 

[pvanv]

Re: Is there anyway to check the ignition with a multimeter?

What is your model? See the parts catalogs for the 30A3 and newer motors on Elvin's website at http://www.internetoutboards.com/PartsCatalogMenu.htm I suspect you will find that points were not used on your motor, but not knowing the model, well...

A Factory service manual is still a wise investment.

FWIW, intermittent ignition failures generally are not "fail cold" problems... They are more typically "fail hot" problems.

 

[matt88]

Re: Is there anyway to check the ignition with a multimeter?

Yes, I do agree that I need a manual but I had been thinking about selling this boat and engine and upgrading to something with a little more power and comfort so Im trying to fix it as cheap as possible. Maybe my local shop will test it for me. I just figured someone would have the specs on how much resistance,voltage,etc on what the cdi box should have while cranking. thanks for your reply.

I looked at that parts list and its not there. My engine is a 1982 model M30A.

 

[matt88]

Re: Is there anyway to check the ignition with a multimeter?

Went by the shop today and found out unfortunately that there is really no tried and true way to test this cdi. Was told that by two different shop techs and one of them used to be a nissan dealer. So I guess its off with the fly wheel. Ive got another stupid question. Would anyone have any clue as to what the wires coming out of the plate beneath the flywheel should read? If I knew this I could just test it and if I do need a new cdi box I could atleast not have to take the flywheel off. One lead reads around 150 volts and one is ground and one seems to be a resistor wire. Any help is much appreciated,thanks.

 

[comanr]

Re: Is there anyway to check the ignition with a multimeter?

in any way you cannot have 150 volt on your motor ,if you have ,you are a rich man.
i think you have a carb issue .
check:
1.plugs
2.battery
3.fuel filter
4.carb misadjusted
comsider that your compression is getting low ,year by yer, the engine is not going to get newer...
hope it helps.

 

[matt88]

Re: Is there anyway to check the ignition with a multimeter?

As for the 150 volts check out this link

http://www.marinepartsman.com/ELECT...ards.html#OUTBOARD IGNITION SYSTEM TEST CHART

Found my info. just for mariner instead of tohatsu so I hope that will be close enough to compare so thanks anyways for trying I guess.