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Here is the basic scenario. I have a 1979 Evinrude 150 that runs great...just doesnt start so great.

First thing, I have 2 brand new batteries with 850 CCA hooked up to it. When I turn the key, it acts as thought the batteries were dead...cranks sluggishly. Second thing, when I first turn it over, there isnt any spark but then it eventually gets spark after repeated turns of the key and letting it crank for about 10 seconds each time...only then will it try to fire up. It kicks the starter gear out and but doesnt fully start. I go through this about 6 times before it will start to crank and fire up. Once it starts, it runs great.

I have tried it with using the primer ball on the fuel line and not using the key choke. I have tried it with just the key choke. I have also tried it with both and it still acts the same.

Anyone have any clues?

thanks in advance

-Chris

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It may be that what's happening is the low initial RPM of the cranking is preventing spark but introducing fuel, which is causing your difficulties once the starter gets up to speed. Is there any way you can connect one of the new batt's right to the engine with short cables, bypassing the batt switch, etc, to see if your solenoid and starter are OK?

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Sorry about the delay in replying...I havent had time to even look at the boat. I'll try hooking up directly to the engine and see what happens. I did forget to mention that when you first turn the key, it cranks very slowly but then gradually speeds up as you hold the key. I also noticed the cables are a little corroded where they connect to the battery clamps so I'm going to replace those and make sure there is a good connection there.

-chris

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Sounds like a good plan and if there are wing nuts on the battery posts, replace them with nuts and lock washers, and use a ratchet to get a good tight connection after you clean them up.

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It sounds just like the problem I had when I first bought my 22 outrage. Your motor will to fire off a spark unless it is getting at least 12 volts.

Your problem is not in the cable ends but with the entire cable. I replaced the all of the battery cables with #6 Ancor line and soldered new ends on and covered them with heat shrink tubing. That solved my problem. After I got the old lines off I cut all of the sheathing and for the old cables were corroding over the entire length thus greatly reducing the amount of potential load the line could carry over that distance.

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Okay, sorry it took a while but I got the cables replaced and still have the same issue. I'm guessing its the solenoid now. Any thoughts?

-chris

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I would also check the electrical connections to the ignition switch. It could be you have some corrosion there or in the wiring harness.

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I replaced the starter solenoid but now when I turn the key, it only clicks...no turning of the starter. Very odd considering the old solenoid would at least start the engine occasionally. I've rapidly exceeded my engine knowledge and have had to call in a mechanic. I'll keep everyone posted as to what the issue is/was.

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Had a mechanic come over and diagnose it as a bad starter...the original one from 1979...yikes! I ordered in a new one and installed it today. Everything works perfectly now. It turns over much quicker and was very easy to install. Just thought I would update this incase anyone else ever runs into this issue.

-chris