Kill Switch

skistud

Cadet
Joined
Jul 5, 2012
Messages
6
I have a 90 Evinrude 48HP. It was running great just a few days ago. Went to start it and nothing.
Battery is fully charged. I think it is the kill switch. What is easiest way to test? Can I just cut out the kill switch out and wire the two ends together?
 

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,771
Re: Kill Switch

Just what does the term "nothing" mean. Does the engine crank but not start, or does the engine not crank when you turn the key to START. Very different conditions and issues. The kill switch does not prevent the engine from cranking but it does prevent it from starting. The neutral start switch in the control box prevents the starter from engaging except in NEUTRAL. Jiggle the shift/throttle handle to see fi that's the issue. There is a fuse under the engine cover. If the trim doesn't work and the starter does not engage, check the fuse.. I could go on here but your description of the issue is very vague.
 

skistud

Cadet
Joined
Jul 5, 2012
Messages
6
Re: Kill Switch

Just what does the term "nothing" mean. Does the engine crank but not start, or does the engine not crank when you turn the key to START. Very different conditions and issues. The kill switch does not prevent the engine from cranking but it does prevent it from starting. The neutral start switch in the control box prevents the starter from engaging except in NEUTRAL. Jiggle the shift/throttle handle to see fi that's the issue. There is a fuse under the engine cover. If the trim doesn't work and the starter does not engage, check the fuse.. I could go on here but your description of the issue is very vague.

Starter does not crank. It has 12 volts on the batter side of the solenoid.
I have jiggled the neutral switch. Which could be bad. But I did test it for continuity which it has when in neutral. So I think this switch is ok.
I also replaced the starter ignition switch and starter solenoid but still the starter does not crank.
I will try to jump the solenoid or put power to the starter next.
I will also try the fuse under the engine cover. I will have to find it though. I did not see it on visual inspection. I will try to find an elec schematic drawing.
Thanks.
 

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,771
Re: Kill Switch

If the trim doesn't work then that fuse is the issue. As you have learned, replacing parts hoping to get lucky is an expensive way to troubleshoot. Follow the red lead from the starter solenoid. You will find the fuse.
 

MH Hawker

Vice Admiral
Joined
Jul 13, 2011
Messages
5,516
Re: Kill Switch

Sounds like a lose main ground on the motor, or at the battery.
 

skistud

Cadet
Joined
Jul 5, 2012
Messages
6
Re: Kill Switch

If the trim doesn't work then that fuse is the issue. As you have learned, replacing parts hoping to get lucky is an expensive way to troubleshoot. Follow the red lead from the starter solenoid. You will find the fuse.

Thanks. I will try that.
 
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