intermitent spark

[clarkandamber]

I have an old Gale 35hp outboard Model # 35DE13B. It used to start on one pull but now it won't even start with the starter. When I checked the spark I noticed that it was very weak on both cylinders. Coils look brand new.....what shold my next step be?

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: intermitent spark

I don't work on those these days,but the old protocal would call for pulling the coils,and see if the bottoms have a black spot where they are shorting to the mag plate.Next,new points,condensers AND coil/plug wires and boot ends.Also see if the center bushing of the mag plate is worn.If there is a lot of play,the points may not even be opening when the crank is turning.<br /><br />DHP

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: intermitent spark

With the spark plugs removed, the spark should jump a 1/4" gap with a strong blue lightning like flame... a real SNAP!<br /><br />Take a good look at the points. If they're pitted/burnt, the condenser is leaking, in which case replace the points and condensers.<br /><br />Set the points having the flywheel key aligned with the fiber rubbing portion of the points. Set them so that a .020 gauge goes thru them but a .022 will not.<br /><br />Along with the hard starting problem, if the engine has been sitting for awhile, the chances are great that the carburetor is fouled, in which case, remove, clean, and rebuild it.

 

[clarkandamber]

Re: intermitent spark

I've had guys tell me that It could be a problem with a kill switch.......problem is that I can't find it..........is there anywhere I can get a wiring diagram for this engine?

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: intermitent spark

It may not have one. Check for a couple small black wires coming from each point underneath the flywheel. If there isn't a kill switch, there will be only one running to the vaccum cutout switch.<br />If the points have been fouled by oil, the top main crank seal might be blown. Cleaning and gapping the points would be your first step though. <br />Make sure those new coils were properly installed and are sitting real flush with the machined bosses they sit on. That is to say, they run close enough to the magnet in the flywheel.<br />Finally, have a real close look at the flywheel key and make sure it hasn't been partially sheared or something simlair. It's very important that the flywheel be properly indexed to the crankshaft.