1963 johnson won't start

[tamuben1]

I have a 1963 75HP electric shift Johnson (V4AL-15E).
The other day I took the boat out and it started and ran perfectly, then a couple minutes later there was a quick electrical burning smell and the engine died. Now when I turn the key it acts like there isn't even a battery connected, no clicks, or any other sound. I do still have lights. I replaced two fuses, one by the key and one in the junction box (both were bad). I also replaced the starting solenoid switch, I read somewhere that they can burn up, so I foolishly thought that was my problem without doing any testing.
Any ideas as to what my problem is.

Thanks

 

[Evinrude Boater]

Re: 1963 johnson won't start

Any ideas as to what my problem is?

Something burnt up?
Seriously, get your volt meter and a wiring diagram and start tracing. If you smelled an electrical fire I would think you would be near the ignition switch. The power goes through the switch to the solenoid to the starter motor. It should continue to run without the ignition switch though. Have you tried pull starting it? Does it have the plug wires coming out of the bottom or sides of the distributor?
Electrical faults are sometimes difficult to identify. Could be deteriorated wire insulation causing wires to short out, water in wires or other causes.

 

[tamuben1]

Re: 1963 johnson won't start

I have not tried to pull start it. The plugs come out of the side of the distributor. I am going to start tracing tomorrow.

 

[F_R]

Re: 1963 johnson won't start

I have not tried to pull start it. The plugs come out of the side of the distributor. I am going to start tracing tomorrow.

That is battery powered ignition. It won't run without battery power supplied through the ignition switch. Actually, it is just like an old car. Probably nothing to do with your present problem but just as a point of information, the red&white wire going to the coil is a one-ohm resistance wire.