Trouble restarting

[fishhawk16]

I have a 1980 70Hp Merc. I have owned it for almost 20years. <br /><br />Last year I started having some problems getting it restarted. It would usually start the first time without to much trouble, but if I shut it down it wouldn't restart unless I lifted the trottle way up, then it would roar to life.<br /><br />I never used to have to do this. I also notice that it idles a little rough, not sure if this is common for such an old motor.<br /><br />Compression is good 120, 120, 114.<br /><br />In the past I would start it then could restart it without having to lift the trottle tab.<br /><br />Any ideas

 

[vinney]

Re: Trouble restarting

You need a new switch box. The first sign of them going bad its there hard to start. If you get stuck with a no start you can tap on them while cranking and usually start and get you home. You need a new switch box.

 

[fishhawk16]

Re: Trouble restarting

Thanks Vinney,<br /><br />What exactly does the switch box do?

 

[vinney]

Re: Trouble restarting

Its the only component in the ignition that does something. I defind the switch box like a light bulb(it has so many on and offs and there done). A switch boxes has so many on and offs too. The switch box has in put voltage from the stator and input voltage from the trigger and steps up the voltage to the coil.