1973 Evinrude 85hp wont spark

[Magicman5269]

I have an 85hp evinrude that I can't get to spark, I replaced the power pack and bought new plugs, what should be my next steps in trying to get this motor to run?

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: 1973 Evinrude 85hp wont spark

Magicman <br />Do you have the large red connector that comes off the harness in the engine compartment? If so, unplug it in the compartment, jump out the selonoid and see if it fires. Be aware you will have to choke it to kill the motor if it starts, as this disables the ignition switch. If it starts, I would be looking at the kill switch or the ignition switch as the problem.(Also make sure you have the water muffs on the lower unit in case it starts) Don't want to be replacing any more parts by running it dry. Let us know..

 

[ajp]

Re: 1973 Evinrude 85hp wont spark

I would be checking the points or air gap sensor. If the pack doesn't send a charge to the coil, then the sensor or points isn't telling it to. My 1969 115hp has the same problem when the gap is not set correct. Will turn over but no fire. <br /><br />Better get a "factory" service manual, and learn how your motor works, or hire a mechanic. Or keep replacing parts till you find the problem by accident. And since the broke parts are under the flywheel you may never stumble on to them. <br /><br />PS <br />I wouldn't throw away the old powerpack. It is probably fine. You'll have a spare.

 

[Magicman5269]

Re: 1973 Evinrude 85hp wont spark

Red Connector? I'm sorry, but can you be a little bit more detailed. I see a large red wire from the cylinoid to the started. Is that the connector you are refering to? Unplugg it? I can unscrew/unbolt but there isn't anything that unplugs.. I'm not that mechanically inclined

 

[ledgefinder]

Re: 1973 Evinrude 85hp wont spark

The connection between the motor & remote control should be a red male/female plug set, with maybe 8 leads inside. It's under the cowl on the port side. <br /><br />A side effect of disconnecting is to remove the 'kill switch' from the motor - as Rick says, if it starts on you, you'll have to choke it to stop it.<br /><br />All this assumes you do have a 1973 motor. If you don't find the red plug set, let us know what the model number is (on tag on the port side transom bracket).