starter system

[DOUBOY80]

80 140hp mercruiser 181 cu. in. the starter has three poles on it where a normal automotive has two. what is the 3rd pole that has a R by it. I know the battery main power and ignition but don't understand why they have a thired pole that has battery voltage when key on. anybody have an idea. thanks

 

[ndemge]

Re: starter system

On my ole '71 van... Before Changing over to Electronic Ignition... Had 3 on my starter. Battery, Ignition, and a 3rd wire that went to the distributer to give it full current during starting, then it would switch over to it's resister wire.<br /><br />When I changed to HEI and got rid of the points, I just cut that wrie out of the picture. Maybe that's what it is?

 

[DOUBOY80]

Re: starter system

thanks thats kinda what i was thinkin because im not getting much spark at all