1971 Evinrude 60 starting/spark problems

[wjohnsto]

My engine turns over fine but won't start. It catches after I release the key for two puffs. I've tried checking the spark with the plug out, and it only sparks after I release the key. I've tried the same thing with the key in the on position, and go straight from the positive terminal to the starter and the same thing happens (spark only after releasing the starter). I found some corrision in the position wire from the battery and corrected that. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[wjohnsto]

Re: 1971 Evinrude 60 starting/spark problems

Talked a mechanic who thought the ignition switch could be bad. He said to try a light on the ignition wire at the motor. If the light was off when cranking, but on when the switch was in the on position. the switch was bad. He thought the ignition wire was purple. Does this sound reasonable? and does anyone know if the ignition wire is purple?

 

[F_R]

Re: 1971 Evinrude 60 starting/spark problems

Talked a mechanic who thought the ignition switch could be bad. He said to try a light on the ignition wire at the motor. If the light was off when cranking, but on when the switch was in the on position. the switch was bad. He thought the ignition wire was purple. Does this sound reasonable? and does anyone know if the ignition wire is purple?

The wire is purple. A light is one way, but not very trustworthy. Better is to check the voltage with a multimeter. If you don't have one, you can get one for ten bucks or less. Check the voltage at the purple wires connection on the terminal strip.

That system is much more complicated than that though. You need to check it out in an orderly manner, and only if knowing what you are doing. Mess up and you risk destroying some expensive parts.

 

[wjohnsto]

Re: 1971 Evinrude 60 starting/spark problems

thanks, the boating gods must agree. I finally found a mechanic who will look at it for when I return from vacation on 7/19. I was trying to solve it wHen all tHe mechanics wouldn't look at it.