1973 johnson won't crank after changing impeller

[RCAFMaverick]

hello guys....after changing the impeller on my 1973 johnson 65hp (my first time), the motor won't turn over, I am thinking it has something to do with the linkage, not being in neutral.....but i am just guessing, what did i do wrong?....was wondering if anyone knows what my first step should be.....don't ask me to check voltage and stuff, have not a clue with that....i know battery has power and the cables are hooked up properly, but no sound from the solenoid when key is turned....my planned next step is this, then going to try to find a way to bypass the neutral safety to see if it is that...if i can't figure out what next to do......its going to a mechanic....i live in the country and to bring it to a garage with the gass prices now, yikes....big bill.....any suggestions guys?

Thx
Mav

 

[Tim Frank]

Re: 1973 johnson won't crank after changing impeller

Can you turn it over by hand?

 

[RCAFMaverick]

Re: 1973 johnson won't crank after changing impeller

Yes Tim...did that, it turns.

 

[Tim Frank]

Re: 1973 johnson won't crank after changing impeller

Yes Tim...did that, it turns.

I don't think that the impeller is related to your current problem....which unfortunately is electrical.
Step one, and it requires no instruments or testing is to physically verify all major connections, and clean them as you go. Specifically at the battery and solenoid.
The connections need to be clean, shiny,.... and tight.
Once you have done that (and assuming that the battery is FULLY charged) try it again and let us know how it worked out.

If you have a volt-ohmmeter there is enough help in here we can walk you through a few more basic checks before you hit the road with it.

 

[RCAFMaverick]

Re: 1973 johnson won't crank after changing impeller

ok....will do that tomorrow...battery is charging now, topping it up.....i was thinking it had to do with linkage, i had to move the throttle in reverse to line up the holes to connect linkage bar when putting foot back on.........do you suggest using a scewdriver on solenoid to check if it will turn over ?

 

[milliesdad]

Re: 1973 johnson won't crank after changing impeller

Better to use a remote starter button. You can get one at almost any auto parts store. It is 2 wires witrh alagator clips agt the ends and a push buttton on the end. While you are at it, get a spark tester, so that you can check the spark condition at the plugs.

 

[RCAFMaverick]

Re: 1973 johnson won't crank after changing impeller

Problem solved.....current was going to soleniod, but still no joy with the key......so bypassed solenoid and starter was working ...changed solenoid, still no joy.....my neighbor came over and removed the ground wire from solenoid and reconnected somewhere else.....zing zing, boat turned over with key, so it was a ground problem.........thanks Tim Frank and milliesdad for helping me out....youve done your good deed for the day...hopefully i can do the same to who needs help in the future here.

Mav

 

[Tim Frank]

Re: 1973 johnson won't crank after changing impeller

We all love the happy endings...