Ignition, starter or alternator?

[Don S]

Re: Ignition, starter or alternator?

They go to ground through the windings of the starter solenoid and through paths in the ignition circuit. Plenty of ways to get to ground to light a test light.

I understand that, I just didn't say it right. What I meant was that they are going to ground and that is why the test light is lighting up, and why I asked if had a regular 12V test light and hooked to ground. Some try to use a continuity tester to check for voltage. You just never know.

 

[ajinid]

Re: Ignition, starter or alternator?

I will recheck things when I get home from work tonight. I think I have a regular test light (looks very similar to Don's picture in his tutorial except mine has an alligator clip) although I don't know the difference between a standard test light and a continuity tester.

I placed the alligator clip on the large bolt in the fuse panel assuming it was the ground, but again I'll recheck tonight.

Thanks very much for everyone's patience. I obviously am not that experienced. -AJ

 

[Don S]

Re: Ignition, starter or alternator?

A continuity tester has a battery in it that provides power to light the light.

I placed the alligator clip on the large bolt in the fuse panel assuming it was the ground,

Most panels used today have both, you need the one with black wires to it.

 

[ajinid]

Re: Ignition, starter or alternator?

OK, So I finally got the alligator connected to the ground:facepalm: instead of the power. I tested the ignition switch, the stater relay, and the starter solenoid. All 3 appear to light up properly as described in Don's Guide. Also rechecked battery which is at full charge. What should I look at next?

 

[ajinid]

Re: Ignition, starter or alternator?

Also realized that the once I attempt to start, hour meter will run even after the key is returned to the off position (keeps running even after key removed). Have to disconnect the battery to turn off the hour meter. -AJ

 

[Don S]

Re: Ignition, starter or alternator?

Either the ignition switch or the starter SLAVE solenoid. When the slave solenoid sticks, the I terminal on the solenoid keeps the ignition engaged. Same with the ignition switch.

Test by disconnecting the yellow/red wire from the small terminal of the slave solenoid. Hook the wire to your test light and your test light wire to ground. Then turn the key to the start position, the light should light up. Let off the key, and the light should go out. Check several times.

If the light does go out each time, the ign. switch is good, and the solenoid is sticking.

 

[ajinid]

Re: Ignition, starter or alternator?

Problem Solved!

Thanks Don, it was the starter relay (slave solenoid). Replaced it now everything starts and works normal. Iboats rocks

-AJ