Newer Mercury 40HP EFi wont start

[Martian]

The motor is a 2007 40HP EFI tiller. I am a bit miffed about this, not knowing anything about how my engine works is not helping. Its still under the warranty period but I would like to avoid having to bring it in. It won't turn over.

-The battery is at 80% and 12.7 volts (is that enough?)
-The key makes a beep when put to "run", but nothing when put to start
- I hear a sound like something is charging when put into run but that is all
- the engine lever is in neutral but the prop does not spin freely, only clockwise

What should I do next? Should the engine be able to in and out of neutral when the engine is off?

The manual says do not put the boat into reverse when the motor is off but a local mercury service place salesman told me to have it in neutral when trailered???? Is he just jerking me around? Whats the problem with putting it into neutral?

Mercury is no help...the person on the phone was clueless but in all fairness they told me the dealers take care of all the issues.

Can anyone familiar with this motors give me some help?
My heart would feel a lot better if I can get it started this weekend.

Martin

 

[sdsaw]

Re: Newer Mercury 40HP EFi wont start

Hey Martin,
If the starter motor does not engage when you try to start, there is a neutral safety switch inside of the shift/throttle box(starter will only engage if in neutral) It sounds as if your linkage adjustment is not right since you say the motor is in gear when the shifter is in the neutral position. If you are handy with tools, try pulling the shifter assembly and see if you can locate the problem.
Hope this helps.

Scott

 

[Martian]

Re: Newer Mercury 40HP EFi wont start

thank dude!

I went right for the shifting mechanism and found the problem in the shifting linkage. its an internal break away part that I needed a flashlight to see. I think it was designed that way to protect the rest of the mechanism. The lever was either jarred good or the part was defective.

Its in a tight spot, but I have only taken off the top cowling so this may be a very serviceable part.

thanks again...I will sleep better now.

Martian

 

[sdsaw]

Re: Newer Mercury 40HP EFi wont start

You are welcome!
Glad that I was able to help.
Seems as if your rig is still under warranty. If your dealer is cool like mine, take the broken part to him and have it replaced under warranty. He'll still get paid by the factory.