Quits while running

[Ted S.]

Last weekend I replaced the impeller on my 71 125 Johnson. It was late and getting pretty dark and in my haste to get the job done, I accidently left the ignition on. When I went to launch the boat in the morning the battery was completely flat (of course!). After a 8 hr. charge it cranked over and started fine but quit after about 15-20 minutes running. It would not restart until it was resting for about an hour or so. What do you guys think? Igniter? Coil? Points? I'm open to opinions as to where to start. Thanks

 

[chip65ss]

Re: Quits while running

If I'm not mistaken, if you leave your ingnition on for long periods of time you can burn up your points. I would check them first.

 

[Ted S.]

Re: Quits while running

If the points need replacing, I'll need to check the timing. Can it be checked with a strobe light?

 

[rschuele]

Re: Quits while running

It may be too weird, but I once had this problem and it turned out to be the fuel pump. The "juice" to get her going slowly burns out as she runs. Then it seems to choke out? If your electrical problem can be traced to the fuel pump, check this out. Rod

 

[Ted S.]

Re: Quits while running

Rod, the fuel pump was replaced last year. I should note that this engine has performed flawlessly (aside from some idle quality issues) since I have owned it. (3 years) I have basically changed the plugs and the gearcase oil regularly and poured gas in the tanks.(lot's I might add) This issue is completely new and only since I left the ignition on overnight.

 

[Ted S.]

Re: Quits while running

I forgot to mention that this ignition system has 1 coil and a distributor mounted under the flywheel. I borrowed a manual from a friend but it only covers 73-91 models. These have individual coils for each cylinder. Are there any advantages to using a conventional automotive coil and if so can it be adapted to work on an outboard reliably?

 

[boating brad]

Re: Quits while running

id check the points, but most importantly i would take the battery to the closest auto store and have it load tested. as you may already know that when a battery is run down, you can let it sit for a while and it will regenerate itself. which would explain the cranking after it sits a while thing.

 

[Ted S.]

Re: Quits while running

I just finished doing the rest of the LU seals, new plugs, and replaced all the fuel ines and clamps. It started up right away with the muffs on but quit after about 15 seconds. Would not restart. The battery is ok and was charged up all day today just to be sure. I have a spark but it is pretty weak. I,m still wondering if the coil is pooched......

 

[The Marine Doctor]

Re: Quits while running

Replace the Ign coil...once it heats up it quits.<br /><br />TMD

 

[Ted S.]

Re: Quits while running

I replaced the coil with a new Bombardier unit. It started and ran on the muffs for about 2 minutes then it quit again. No spark. Zero. Let it rest for about 2 Minutes And it started and quit repeatedly afterwards. Now it won't start at all. What about the Spark igniter unit? What signal is used by the igniter to trigger the coil? Is it a points on/off signal, an AC signal or a digital squarewave? I have power supply and good ground to the igniter. I would like to test the impulse signal to the igniter with a DVOM but need to know what strategy it uses. I think that the igniter got pretty hot because on the underside of it, there was a spot in the silicone sealer that was soft and deteriorated. I pulled back the sealer and found 2 solder joints that were obviously overheated.

 

[Ted S.]

Re: Quits while running

I forgot to mention that the part# is IDG3001-Prestolite.<br />Bombardier #398362<br /><br />Any way to convert to conventional electronic ignition?