1988 Mercury 70hp: NO SPARK: New Stator, trigger OK, Coils, OK, Plugs OK

[EriccirE]

1988 Mercury 70hp Outboard. I replaced the Stator with a new CDI replacement. The new one measures within resistance specs. Trigger measures within resistance specs. Each coil measures within resistance specs.

I am getting no spark on any of the cylinders. What am I missing??

I have a new switch box on order. Process of elimination is leading me to believe this is the culprit.

Any tips or suggestions? Thanks fellas.

 

[Mercurylips]

Defective kill switch?

 

[EriccirE]

I experience the same issue with the black/yellow wire disconnected from the switch box.

 

[ajgraz]

Sounds to me like you've narrowed it down to either the switch box or mean gremlins. I'm hoping it's the switch box!

The switch box is a particular Achilles heel for that motor family. As is crumbly insulation, corroded wiring, mis-colored/mis-labeled wiring, etc. on any Mercury brand ignition component of that vintage...if any of your replacement stuff is "New Old Stock" OEM, even if still in original package, look it over VERY carefully for these issues.