1988 omc electrical / starting

[chopperdog]

Cannot get power to coil. Engine turns over, so there is power to starter.
Engine will start and run great if I jump the battery directly to the coil.

I've installed New Electronic Shift Assist. I've tested continuity on my New ignition interuptor and overshift switches (installed prior by mechanic).

I hot wired the leads to ignition switch, and it turns over, but no start.

Could it simply be a broken wire somewhere? Nothing is obvious.

Frustrated. Any help is appreciated.

Thanks,

Chopperdog!!

 

[bruceb58]

Re: 1988 omc electrical / starting

Check your safety lanyard switch.

Check your ballast resistor or ballast resistor wire connections. Basically, turn the key on and work your way back from the coil towards the ignition switch.

 

[chopperdog]

Re: 1988 omc electrical / starting

Bruceb,

Thank you for the reply.
I am not too mechanically skilled, but follow directions.

I don't have a safety lanyard. The safety switch in the throttle is not
the problem, b/c it won't turn over at all if in gear, and turns over when in neutral.

I must admit, I don't know what a ballast resistor is.
Can you expand a little, if you don't mind.

Thank you,
Chopperdog

 

[bruceb58]

Re: 1988 omc electrical / starting

Up in the adult section is a link to a wiring diagram that you can download that shows it. Basically, it will be a big ceramic power resistor that is used to drop the current going through your coil. On a V8 engine it is usually mounted on the intake manifold and is a rectangular and ceramic. It is between your coil and your ignition switch.

 

[chopperdog]

Re: 1988 omc electrical / starting

Thank you.
I'll search it. I appreciate the diagram location on this forum.

Have a good one!

Chopperdog