what does this do?

[wa_ssv197]

Below is a photo my my 1987 25hp for a Lund that I just got. The choke is on the left and the wiring enters on the right. The middle I am guessing is some sort of switch. There are two wires coming off the back, the first is white/red striped which goes to the coil. The second is red and goes to nothing. Does anyone know where it goes?
Thanks!

Here is the photo of the wires coming off the back of the switch

 

[dazk14]

Re: what does this do?

That is a start switch. How do you currently electric start the motor?

 

[wa_ssv197]

Re: what does this do?

Ignition switch at the console.

 

[dazk14]

Re: what does this do?

That's why it's disconnected. Cover up the loose end, in the off chance the switch is shorted.

 

[wa_ssv197]

Re: what does this do?

Great thanks!

Now to get the thing started. It has been sitting for almost 3 years, other than fuel, anything to check? Battery is on charger just to see if it still has life. I turned the key and not even a click. Could I bypass the battery by rope starting it? I can turn the flywheel by hand so its not seized.

 

[wa_ssv197]

Re: what does this do?

Found the issue with not getting a click even after the new battery. There was a wire missing from the neutral safety switch. Motor turned over just fin.