turn key - nothing...no click, no nothing - then everything is fine. Suggestions ?

[greenjeans]

95 bayliner with a Force 120 OB. My first boat. Had compression checked - fine. Had to put a new starter on it as well as an impellor and lower end lube.
Battery is fully charged and holds charge well. Connections to battery are freshly cleaned.

I've only had it in the water twice. Both times, after running it for a bit (runs like a champ) and after it had sat, I tried starting her back up.
Nothing happened - no click of the solenoid, no nothing. Like the battery was unhooked. Both times I was able to start it - but, I don't know how. I took the key out, re-inserted it and tried it. Nothing. I tried the "run/off" safety switch - Nothing. Then just as I am starting to worry, I try the key, and it starts right up.

Is there anything that I could be missing ? I figured it was the connections, but I cleaned all of the battery connections and starter connections thoroughly when I installed the new starter.

What about the little safety switch that is directly under the throttle lever ?

Solenoid ?

Any ideas of what to check ? I'd hate to get stranded.

 

[tater76]

Re: turn key - nothing...no click, no nothing - then everything is fine. Suggestions

Most likely it is the interlock switch in the shift linkage. Move the shifter slightly forward and back while turning the key, this will tell you when it is engaged because it will let the starter engage. If you move the shifter and still get nothing then there is another problem, but try that first.

 

[greenjeans]

Re: turn key - nothing...no click, no nothing - then everything is fine. Suggestions

Ah, that makes perfect sense. Is the switch within the throttle ? I should have my manual (factory Force manual)for the motor any day now...not sure if it will cover the throttle.

I'm assuming (insert remarks at will) that the motor will ONLY start if it is in neutral or the "fast idle" position ?

 

[pbgeneral]

Re: turn key - nothing...no click, no nothing - then everything is fine. Suggestions

That is correct the nuetrel saftey switch will not allow cranking of the motor while in gear. It is located in the remote control (throttle).

 

[1fishbone]

Re: turn key - nothing...no click, no nothing - then everything is fine. Suggestions

Ah, that makes perfect sense. Is the switch within the throttle ? I should have my manual (factory Force manual)for the motor any day now...not sure if it will cover the throttle.

I'm assuming (insert remarks at will) that the motor will ONLY start if it is in neutral or the "fast idle" position ?

Exact-a-mudo!! How many times has my heart stopped because I was in that 'position'!