1975 merc 850 will not start

[buddyp]

Motor ran yesterday today nothing...trim pump works..turn the key and nothing happens...battery 12.78..cleaned all terminals..neutral safety switch has been removed...I give up?

 

[quantumman29]

Re: 1975 merc 850 will not start

is it clicking when the key is turned?
just cuz the power trim works dosent mean the crankin battery is strong enough to crank it,
make sure the battery is charged...
a little more info would help everyone........

mike

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: 1975 merc 850 will not start

Starter solenoid ?

 

[buddyp]

Re: 1975 merc 850 will not start

Nothing clicks no starter clicks or choke clicks?

 

[Wingedwheel]

Re: 1975 merc 850 will not start

If the battery is charged and still nothing, try jumping the solenoid with a screwdriver to see if that works. With the key on it should start and stay running. If thats the case you probably have a bad switch in the start position. If when you jump the solenoid it won't run, you may have a bad switch period.

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: 1975 merc 850 will not start

Nothing clicks no starter clicks or choke clicks?

To me, that would indicate you are not getting power to the control from the battery. Could be a broken wire in the harness, at the battery or in the controller. Those old motors are notorious for having bad wiring.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 1975 merc 850 will not start

I agree with Moody. BTW the PTT system is independent of the motor. See if you have power on the white wire near the red wire on the switchbox. If not, suspect the boat harness or the ign switch.