Evinrude 1975 85 hp electrical starting issue

[BraydenAnthony]

Can short out the starter and get it to spin, no shock when done. Replaced ignition also. Nothing happens when key is turned.

 

[racerone]

Checked the 20 amp fuse ?

 

[oldboat1]

If the boat is new to you and you are trying to test it out, be aware that you can spin it over pretty easily with a piece of rope. Turn the key to the run position and leave the battery hooked up (be a good idea to check polarity too). Motor in neutral.

 

[Crosbyman]

does the selenoid click in START mode ??

 

[BraydenAnthony]

does the selenoid click in START mode ??

No

 

[Crosbyman]

have a buddy keep your key on START and wiggle, prod all the wiring you can reach..especially in flexing areas also check neutral switch and safety switch

if you get a reaction you have a broken wire....time to whip out a test lamps or volt ohm meter
surgery and a soldering iron may be required

Make certain all connections to the battery , and motor side are clean

see diagram V4 from the 70s... may help clean all connections in the fat connector
V4_1973.jpg (1998×2279) (maxrules.com)

 

[BraydenAnthony]

have a buddy keep your key on START and wiggle, prod all the wiring you can reach..especially in flexing areas also check neutral switch and safety switch

if you get a reaction you have a broken wire....time to whip out a test lamps or volt ohm meter
surgery and a soldering iron may be required

Make certain all connections to the battery , and motor side are clean

see diagram V4 from the 70s... may help clean all connections in the fat connector
V4_1973.jpg (1998×2279) (maxrules.com)

Weathers been terrible, going to try this out tomorrow. Thanks!

 

[Crosbyman]

Assuming the diagram reflects your engine .... the selenoid gets a ground via the safety switch and the momentary 12V to energize it, comes from the "start" key via the neutral switch . Critical points are

• the 12v supply feeding the key assembly
• switch operation to apply 12V to the selenoid destination in START
• Neutral switch continuity (wiggle the shifter in START mode)
• Safety switch... probably OK
• all wiring & flex points to & associated with the selenoid
• junction contacts in the fat connector (open it and clean both sides)

let us know what you find

 

[Crosbyman]

Weathers been terrible, going to try this out tomorrow. Thanks!

still raining ...?