Switch Box for 175 Merc Black Max (1996)

[raganjones]

Friends,

I believe I have to replace my switch boxes on my engine. Question, is this difficult to do? I am not very mechanical, but am willing with some
guidance. Please give me your thoughts.

RJ

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: Switch Box for 175 Merc Black Max (1996)

Its very easy to do and just replace them one at a time so wiring wont get crossed. What makes you they are bad????

 

[raganjones]

Re: Switch Box for 175 Merc Black Max (1996)

Faztbullet,

Thanks for the reply.

The other day while on the water, I couldn't get the boat to plane and take off (have hot foot on old 86 ranger).

I would try and start the engine, as soon as I would put the throttle in forward, the engine would die,......EVERY TIME for about 15
minutes! Then, continuing to restart the boat, I head something "click in" "click on" and we planed and ran fine back to the launch
ramp. First thought it was a fuel problem, like filter because it seemed starving for gas to take off, but while running back I had no problem! Ran great.

Also, last spring I had a day when I couldn't get the boat on plane and it seemed "starving" for gas also.

About two weeks ago while having a silenoid replaced, the mechanic said he could hear the engine "running bad" kind of shut off andcome back on. After I told him what happened on the water, he seems to think that the switch box in only powering some of spark plugs.

I have had the same thing happen years ago with a 25 hp, so I am feeling confident its the same thing.

What do you recommend? I am not very mechanical, but want to learn the basics of taking care of my boat & engine. Also, can't
afford to pay someone to have it fixed right now, thus, need to learn.

Thank you so much for the help.

RJ

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: Switch Box for 175 Merc Black Max (1996)

Download the CDI electronic trouble shooting manual from their site and test your stator,rectifier and what few tests on the switchboxes. Sounds more like the low speed stator winding is failing to me....

 

[CharlieB]

Re: Switch Box for 175 Merc Black Max (1996)

Remember, there is NO RETURN on electrical parts!

Assuming a part is bad and start throwing parts on is THE most expensive method of repair, as you can often end up replacing the whole ignition system before you find out you have a dirty fuel filter.

Follow Faztbullet's advise, download the CDI troubleshooting guide, test everything, twice, and be SURE, before you spend a dime (or over a hundred dollars) on any electrical part.

 

[raganjones]

Re: Switch Box for 175 Merc Black Max (1996)

You guys are great!

I appreciate the advise, here is a question for the two of you, what if I am a mechanical dufus? What would you recommend?

RJ

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: Switch Box for 175 Merc Black Max (1996)

(A) Get a non dufus friend to help you and a 6 pack or (B) Take it to a reliable service shop

 

[raganjones]

Re: Switch Box for 175 Merc Black Max (1996)

Faztbullet,

What is a "low speed stator winding"? Whats it purpose?

RJ

 

[raganjones]

Re: Switch Box for 175 Merc Black Max (1996)

PS> If it is a switch box, what do I look for on the water or when running it in the drive way?