1997 175 EFI Mercury, intermittant starting problem, help

96Ran.CS

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Joined
Sep 4, 2019
Messages
2
My '97 Merc. 175 EFI starts 100% of the time at the start off an outing. It will then start after being shut down most off the time, but..., occasionally will not fire at all after already running that day. Acts as if there is no spark, cranks strong but will not even attempt to fire, as if "dead man" switch has been tripped. Has happened four times in probably 20+ outings. It will always start the following day, sometimes after sitting 3 or 4 hours. Anyone run into this before? has been to the shop twice and no problem found, could not get the problem to surface for them. Help!!
 

Faztbullet

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 2, 2008
Messages
15,937
Need to check when it happens, take a timimg light with you. Also does fuel pump run when this happens as could be fuel driver problem in ECU..
 

96Ran.CS

Recruit
Joined
Sep 4, 2019
Messages
2
If timing light shows no spark, what do I check next, as this only happens on outings and then I am dead in the water. Possible work around to return to ramp? Suggestions to check fuel pump, only runs when motor running, correct? Have repair manual ordered as local shops have not been able to diagnose and repair.
 

Faztbullet

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 2, 2008
Messages
15,937
If its no spark ...check that its not overcharging as this can cause stator and fuel pump to overheat. If that's OK stator is failing. The fuel pump will cycle when you turn key to on for a few seconds,
 
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