Intermittent Starting - Electrical Short ?

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K

Kim Arnall

I have a three position ignition switch (off-on-start)for starting the iron jenny. Sometimes when the ignition switch is in the "on" position the voltmeter registers somewhere less than 10 volts (gauge doesn't show below 10 so it may be no volts) - and then nothing happens when turning the ignition switch to the start position. Of course when this occurs the starter does not engage. I have replaced the ignition switch. I don't know what causes the problem but I don't think enough voltage is getting to the solinoid to engage the starter. Which wires should I check AGAIN? If you are thinking ground wire - which one? Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks
 
Mar 31, 2004
244
Catalina 380 T Holland
Need more info

If your boat is older than about '90, it could be the wiring harness. Need more information to give any insight. Steve Alchemist C-320 #909 Alchemist C-30T #4764
 
K

kim

More information

The engine is a 1982 5411 universal diesel. I have upgraded the wiring harness, batts are good, etc. I'm wondering if I need new battery cables, or solinoid, or ????
 
B

BARRY

SOLVED SAME PROBLEM

THE WHITE WIRE LEADING FROM THE KEY SWITCH THROUGH THE HARNES WAS PARTIALLY OXIDIZED FROM AGE ON MY 77,27' CATALINA. IF YOU SHORT THE TERMINALS BETWEEN THE STARTER SOLENOID, WILL THE ENGINE CRANK? IF IT DOES RUN A NEW WIRE FROM THE #3 POSITION ON THE KEY DIRECTLY TO THE SOLENOID BYPASSING THE HARNESS. A SIMPLE CHECK WOULD BE TO MAKE A JUMPER USING ALLIGATOR CLIPS ON EACH END AND LEAVE IN PLACE FOR SEVERAL STARTS.
 
Feb 26, 2004
23,078
Catalina 34 224 Maple Bay, BC, Canada
Try the fuse

Kim There's a fuse between the start switch and the starter solenoid. It's usually hidden behind the alternator. It goes from the switch to the inboard side of the starter via, usually, a space connection. Very often the fuse holders end up disintegrating and/or losing contact occasionally. Stu
 
B

BARRY

TYPING

BERT,HARD TO READ SMALL PRINT THEREFORE I PREFER TO USE CAPS. GLAD TO HEAR FROM SOMEONE, I'LL TRY TO CORRECT IN FUTURE. B
 
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