83 evinrude 50 choke solenoid/wiring issue

[marty53]

Hey guys, for anyone following my motor progress, I just found another issue with the choke solenoid, doesn't work at all with key switch (I dont hear it clicking when I push the key in). I did the an ohms test across the solenoid (as per service manual), tested good, and ran 12v to it and I can here it clicking, so I think the solenoid is good.

So I think I have a wiring problem somewhere else. I decided to start with the main wire harness inside the cowling before I even test the switch in the control. My wiring harness is a mess, i had to repair about 8 wires due to mouse damage When i use my continuity tester between the positive on the solenoid and each pin on the harness, two different pins sound off (pictured), which seems odd to me. But weird thing is, if I put 12v to each of the pins, oddly one seems to be the starter solenoid (which I can hear clicking) and the other doesn't seem to do anything. My harness may just be toast, but I'm not that eager to pay $100 for a new one. I'm wondering if anyone has any ideas on how to track down my issue.

 

[oldboat1]

battery disconnected, think I would test the key switch with the continuity tester. May be as simple as cleaning up connections (a little sandpaper and some spray electrical cleaner).

 

[marty53]

Are you saying test between the key switch and the solenoid? Would that require I take control apart? I'm pretty sure I've taken every ground off and cleaned the terminals at this point, and everything else seems to be working.

Am I wrong in thinking that I should be able to get the solenoid to engage by providing 12v to the wire harness pin that it has continuity with (weird that 2 pins seem to) ? This test was a first step before I trace it back to the key. Unless I'm missing something on how the solenoid works

 

[oldboat1]

No, simpler than that. See if the keyswitch is working when operating the choke. Check continuity from choke wire connection at keyswitch to power at switch (probably purple). Tester should light or beep when you push in the key, if the switch works.

(battery disconnected)

 

[marty53]

OK you mean the control side wire harness, test between red and purple wires while turning and pushing the key? Sounds like I may need 3rd and 4th hands for that! Or do you mean take the control apart to perform this test?

 

[oldboat1]

You would have to get at the keyswitch wiring connections behind the dash or (apparently in your case) in the remote box. Sounds like you need an alligator clip or two.