1976 115hp merc. outboard shuts off.

[arnyp]

Hi. I'm thinking about buying a 1976 115hp merc engine that shuts off hot, cold, idle, full throttle dosen't matter. Doesn't run rough before it just shuts off. I was looking at ignition parts and it says the distributor cap is no longer available. Anyone with an idea? Thanks

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 1976 115hp merc. outboard shuts off.

Sure, That motor needs 12VDC power on the red and adjacent white wires on the switchbox, in order to have spark. In those old motors the wiring can go bad, interrupting the voltage, when you turn or hit a bump. Jumper the white and red wires on the switchbox (non-dist side) and retest. if the motor stays running, you have found the isseue, and it is likely the white wire. Of course the motor will not shut off with the ign switch after you install the jumer wire.