65 hp solenoid won't engage

[Sciotorugby4]

I'm trying to get an old 1973 65hp Johnson running again, I'm stuck at the solenoid. I've tested the battery (12.2 volts), and I've tested where the power enters the solenoid (again 12.2v), and at the lead for the starter I have nothing. I jumped the solenoid with a piece of wire and the starter fired (although sluggishly). I replaced the solenoid and still I'm having the same problem. I'm not sure if I've wired it back together wrong or what. I'm not sure where to go next, any help would be appreciated.

I've attached a picture of how I have the solenoid wired. The bottom is the power from the battery, the "s" terminal is from the key. the "I" terminal is connected to the neutral switch and the top is connected to the starter. Thanks again.

 

[schematic]

Re: 65 hp solenoid won't engage

sounds like you're trying to use a automotive solenoid. There shouldn't be an "I" terminal on a marine solenoid of that vintage. "I" was used for a point type system with a 12V. bypass and resistor

 

[Sciotorugby4]

Re: 65 hp solenoid won't engage

That solenoid is from iboats, its also exactly the same as the one that was taken out.

 

[schematic]

Re: 65 hp solenoid won't engage

battery voltage is low. recharge first before further troubleshooting.

 

[Sciotorugby4]

Re: 65 hp solenoid won't engage

What voltage should I be getting from the battery?

 

[out 2 launch]

Re: 65 hp solenoid won't engage

Check to see if you are getting battery voltage at the "S" terminal of the solenoid when the key switch is in the start position. If not the problem is in the key switch or the wiring from the switch to the solenoid. If battery voltage is present at "S" then check to see if the neutral switch is closed providing the connection to ground completing the circuit.

 

[Sciotorugby4]

Re: 65 hp solenoid won't engage

There is no voltage at the "s" post. I tried crossing the key switch also no luck. Is there another way to test the key switch to see if thats it?

 

[out 2 launch]

Re: 65 hp solenoid won't engage

Yes there are a number of ways. The easiest would be to test it with all the wires hooked up provided you have access to the terminals on the back. Connect the voltmeter black lead to ground, connect the red lead to the (S) terminal at the switch. Turn the switch to the start position and you should have battery voltage. If not the switch is bad. If you do show battery voltage then the problem is in the wiring.

 

[Sciotorugby4]

Re: 65 hp solenoid won't engage

Which wire would lead to the "s"? The wire that connects to the solenoid is white (prob faded) there is no white wire at the key. There is solid purple, purple w/black stripe, and yellow w/red stripe.

 

[out 2 launch]

Re: 65 hp solenoid won't engage

Yellow w/red stripe is the starter circuit. The switch terminal will also be marked with an "S" but it may be difficult to see.