1972 mercury 650 works now

[eli_lilly]

I just wanted to say "thanks" to everyone here, particularly Clams. I just got my first boat a month ago, a '69 Hewes Tarpon with a '72 Merc 650. The 650 would turn over but wouldn't start. I spent two weeks reading what seemed like every message here. I printed out a few, took them out to the boat, and performed the tests on the switcbox that were described. The tests indicated that the box was bad. I bought a new box, put it in last night... went out 30 mins ago, pumped the bulb, lifted the cold start lever, turned the key and 3 seconds later WHAMMO... started right up!!<br /><br />Now I am going to do all the PM stuff I have read about here, but this forum just saved me thousands of dollars!<br /><br />Eli

 

[NBE]

Re: 1972 mercury 650 works now

I've visited several similiar boards in the past. While the knowledge on the other boards may seem comparable (actually probably not even close), the willingness of the people here to help anyone (even us stubborn rookies) makes this the best help message board online without a doubt.

 

[casi77]

Re: 1972 mercury 650 works now

Hi could you let me know what board is that you replaced?? What steps you took, please let me know.. if you have pictures or so, would help alot..<br /><br />

Originally posted by Eli Lilly:<br /> I just wanted to say "thanks" to everyone here, particularly Clams. I just got my first boat a month ago, a '69 Hewes Tarpon with a '72 Merc 650. The 650 would turn over but wouldn't start. I spent two weeks reading what seemed like every message here. I printed out a few, took them out to the boat, and performed the tests on the switcbox that were described. The tests indicated that the box was bad. I bought a new box, put it in last night... went out 30 mins ago, pumped the bulb, lifted the cold start lever, turned the key and 3 seconds later WHAMMO... started right up!!<br /><br />Now I am going to do all the PM stuff I have read about here, but this forum just saved me thousands of dollars!<br /><br />Eli

 

[eli_lilly]

Re: 1972 mercury 650 works now

I replaced the "switchbox", which (in my case) is a rectangular box on the starboard side of the engine. It's easy to recognize, it has a terminal strip with a half-dozen or so wires connected to it. It's very easy to replace, just remove the wires and then unbolt the four corner bolts.

 

[Clams Canino]

Re: 1972 mercury 650 works now

Originally posted by Eli Lilly:<br /> I just wanted to say "thanks" to everyone here, particularly Clams.

(Puts on Elvis voice) Thank you, thank you very much.<br /><br />-W