wiring problems

[toddj_86]

I have an 81 advantage with a mercruiser 120 everything works on the boat but when i crank over the engine the ground wire on the battery starts to melt any ideas

 

[searay3]

Re: wiring problems

Heat is a sign of poor connections. Start with making sure both ends of the cables are clean and tight. No wing nuts. Shiny connectors at the battery and block. Could be a bad cable, or starter, but start with connections.

 

[dustinh]

Re: wiring problems

agreed, you definately have a short some where drawing excessive amperage. i happen to be pretty good at electrical diag i would start with your trusty test light and voltmeter, start at the falure and work your way back if that makes any sense. its a shot in the dark sometimes with electrical but with a little time and effort you'll find it.

p.s. personally i think its in your ground circut, you could be getting pos power leaking to it..i dont know for sure would have to see it

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: wiring problems

Corroded cables and connections are the #1 cause of those problems...as stated clean the connections all up and see what happens.
If that does not help have the starter tested.

Welcome to Iboats!

 

[toddj_86]

Re: wiring problems

thank you all i will replce the ground wire tommorow and let you know how it goes thanks again

 

[toddj_86]

Re: wiring problems

that fixedthat problem thank you