1979 Ebko 16' Runabout won't stay running

[a-lonewolf_]

I have a 1979 Ebko Runabout with an 140 Horsepower engine. I have no clue if this is a mercruiser engine or not. This is my first ever boat, and I do not have any information on it, besides the registration paperwork. The previous owner installed a new fuel pump, and carb kit. I had it running for a few minutes. Now, it will only stay running if I leave the key on. I read in another forum that it may be the ballast resistor. Can anyone tell me where that might be? I see one wire that appears to have gotten hot, and it goes in through the back of the boat into the prop drive. Is that it?

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: 1979 Ebko 16' Runabout won't stay running

A faulty ballast resistor or broken resistor wire can cause the problem you are having but it doesnt run to the outside of the boat. Depending on the system - it is usually near the coil and the distributor or from the starter motor to the coil, some are springs encased in a housing and some are built into wiring loom (usually near starter motor). You need to identify the engine, serial numbers, color of rocker cover etc. How do you know it is 140hp, is there a sticker or casting on rocker cover? You will need this information just to replace filters etc. By the way, I assume you mean it only stays running in the START position, if so, run a wire from battery + to coil + and if this fixes it then it is the ballast.

 

[a-lonewolf_]

Re: 1979 Ebko 16' Runabout won't stay running

Thank You for the help, but I am just going to take it to Cabela's and have them do a survey, and make any repairs.