1979 Chrysler mystery wire?

[harryengelb1]

Hi. first time boat owner. I recently began some minor tune up/repair of my 1979 45hp chrysler (on original Striper boat) and was wondering what the orange wire marked 'heat' was for. It comes off the wiring harness and is not connected to anything. Also was wondering if a cracked coil (see photo) will cause a sparking noise. Cant see anywhere its arcing and only makes a noise at mid-rpms.

Thanks

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 1979 Chrysler mystery wire?

That wire usually connects to a bimetal switch that is most times screwed into the head. When the engine overheats, this switch closes and a buzzer--usually under the dash-- sounds.

If the coil was arcing, I would expect that the engine would miss. Does it?

 

[harryengelb1]

Re: 1979 Chrysler mystery wire?

When it makes this sparking noise, (sounds like loud static) the motor seems to hesitate a bit, but recovers at full throttle.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 1979 Chrysler mystery wire?

Difficult to say! That engine has two sets of points and two condensers under the flywheel. It could be any of the components--coil, points, condenser, or even wiring.