2QM20

[David McKie]

I have the above engine in my 36 and it performs well. My problem is that using one battery (new) the engine when cold will not turn overfast enough to start. I have to use both batteries or the decompression lever. I think the problem may be that the battery cable to starter is too small. What size wire would you recommend?. The current length is 6' from battery to switch and 6' back to the starter.

 

[Gordon Torresen]

2QM starting

The 2QM engine has not been built since 1980. This indicates that the cable size used is probably adequate. A larger cable would never hurt. Clean connectors at the ends are an absolute necessity, both on the outside and where crimped to the cable. A salt environment can degrade copper cables.If you put in a new cable of the same size you will be back to where you were when the engine was new. In addition, if you leave the old cable there too, it costs no more and you may be doubling the area. Engine cranking speed is essential to starting. If you have never, get the starter motor rebuilt by a known competent rebuilder. Worn brushes and/or bushings can slow cranking speed as can bad contact within the solenoid.

 

[Bob Clark]

2QM20 cranking

Your 2QM20 may have a throttle that has a switch in it. The switch would prevent the engine from starting unless the transmission is in neutral. The wires leading to this switch may be too small, or the connection may be bad. Check the wiring circuit. See if there are two wires leading off in the direction of your shifter. Inspect them carefully! They may be too weak.Bob Clark