1987 Force 125 starting problems

[dslegeski]

OK everyone, here is the situation. I just bought a 1987 Bayliner Trophy with a Force 125. When I bought it (five days ago), it started and ran just fine. I dropped it in the bay to take the trailer to get it wieghed (a long story for another time...). At that point in time, the battery was low, but we got it to start. It choked out after running for about 15-20 seconds or so when I released the choke and the battery was so low that I couldn't get it to fire up again. I chalked it up to a cold engine and didn't think there was any real issue besides a bad battery and some "slop" in the ignition cylinder. I replaced the battery and took the ignition cylinde out of the dash but decided against swapping it out until I tested it with the good battery so I put it back in before disconnecting any wires. Now when I turn the key, the motor cranks, but doesnt fire up. Any idea what might have happened?

 

[foodfisher]

Re: 1987 Force 125 starting problems

Is the shifter/throttle in the neutral position? Wiggle it a little bit. There's a neutral safety switch that may be out of position.

 

[Jiggz]

Re: 1987 Force 125 starting problems

Just out of curiosity what is an "Ignition Cylinder"?

 

[dslegeski]

Re: 1987 Force 125 starting problems

Just out of curiosity what is an "Ignition Cylinder"?

LOL--I believe that it is called an ignition switch. Thanks for setting me straight...

 

[dslegeski]

Re: 1987 Force 125 starting problems

Is the shifter/throttle in the neutral position? Wiggle it a little bit. There's a neutral safety switch that may be out of position.

Thanks for the advice! I will try it first thing tomorrow. I really appreciate it!

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: 1987 Force 125 starting problems

If the neutral safety switch is not engaged it won't turn over.
You using the choke?
You undo any wires at the switch?
Fast idle? The shifter,pull the handle out and push forward.It engages the throttle but not the gears.
Fast idle,key switch on,push in key(should hear a click)to choke, then turn key ,keeping the key pushed in as you turn it.
Pull a plug wire and hold it against the end of the spark plug as you turn it over.
Rubber gloves or a boot puller is a good thing.

 

[Jiggz]

Re: 1987 Force 125 starting problems

I've experienced same problem like this before and come to find out when the battery is low, the choke will initially engage until I turn the ignition over to start position and then the choke drops out. You might want to check your choke while starting. Remove the cover, engage the choke (push down on ignition switch) and then continue to turn the switch to the start position and see if the choke stays engaged, if not, you can have someone hold the choke manually until the engine coughs and then start it without the choke. Usually, the cause of the choke dropping out is a bad ignition switch or low battery.