50hp Merc500 question

[jshaneb]

I just got my hands on this 1972 14 ft tomboy bass boat with a 1971 50hp merc 500 on it. The ignition wires from the steering wheel area back to the starter are melted and burnt. I don't know if it runs or ever when it was ran last. I know its been sittin up since 1995. Is this motor worth fooling with or what? Any advice would be great.

 

[Laddies]

Re: 50hp Merc500 question

You need to find the source of the short to start with. If you want to see if it will run you can disconnect the wiring and hand crank the engine to see if it will start. Here's a wiring diagram if it will help.

 

[jshaneb]

Re: 50hp Merc500 question

Hey thanks alot man. Your advise was exactly what I was looking for. Being new to the boating thing, I now have direction.