Hi All,
I'm hoping you guys can provide me some insight or something I've missed as Im losing my mind! Purchased a 1988 Bayliner with an OMC Cobra 5.0 (GM) engine. When I picked up the boat the owner showed me the engine would run but only with the starter engaged. When the key was left to run positionm the engine would abruptly die. He claimed it as the shift interrupt switch was bad. Ive chased down as many options as I can find but Im still having the same issues. I turn the engine over and after a long while it will start to run (barely) but only with the starter engaged, dies as soon as key is released. I have plug spark test light connected, definately showing spark. Since the time of purchase, Ive done the following:
1. Replaced 4bbl Rochester Carb and mechanical choke with new units.
2. Set static ignition timing, Im sure its in the right positon (distirbutor was rotated about 40 degress off initially but wires were in correct order and position. they are now in correct firing sequence 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2 and Cyl #1 on cap is pointing to cyl #1).
3. Checked position of ESD switches, they do not appear to be adjusted correctly. The switch with the lever does not return to open postion when open manually pulled switch plunger out with tweezers. other microswitch is not depressed in nuetral. Tried depressing switch with screwdriver while cranking. nothing.....
4. Compression test is not great but all cylinders are in 95psi to 100 psi range. Yes I know this sucks but it should at least start!
.5. Spraying starter fluid on cold start has ZERO effect on starting. After cranking for long periods, plugs are wet from raw fuel after pulling them.
6. Connecting jumper to positive side of coil while starting has no effect.
Not sure where to look next? Checked the kill lanyard Ordered replacement ESD switches, but would this stop the engine from starting? I guess Im going to try cutting the wires to the interruptor switch and just jumping it? Not sure where else to look, any advice would be appreciated!
I'm hoping you guys can provide me some insight or something I've missed as Im losing my mind! Purchased a 1988 Bayliner with an OMC Cobra 5.0 (GM) engine. When I picked up the boat the owner showed me the engine would run but only with the starter engaged. When the key was left to run positionm the engine would abruptly die. He claimed it as the shift interrupt switch was bad. Ive chased down as many options as I can find but Im still having the same issues. I turn the engine over and after a long while it will start to run (barely) but only with the starter engaged, dies as soon as key is released. I have plug spark test light connected, definately showing spark. Since the time of purchase, Ive done the following:
1. Replaced 4bbl Rochester Carb and mechanical choke with new units.
2. Set static ignition timing, Im sure its in the right positon (distirbutor was rotated about 40 degress off initially but wires were in correct order and position. they are now in correct firing sequence 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2 and Cyl #1 on cap is pointing to cyl #1).
3. Checked position of ESD switches, they do not appear to be adjusted correctly. The switch with the lever does not return to open postion when open manually pulled switch plunger out with tweezers. other microswitch is not depressed in nuetral. Tried depressing switch with screwdriver while cranking. nothing.....
4. Compression test is not great but all cylinders are in 95psi to 100 psi range. Yes I know this sucks but it should at least start!
.5. Spraying starter fluid on cold start has ZERO effect on starting. After cranking for long periods, plugs are wet from raw fuel after pulling them.
6. Connecting jumper to positive side of coil while starting has no effect.
Not sure where to look next? Checked the kill lanyard Ordered replacement ESD switches, but would this stop the engine from starting? I guess Im going to try cutting the wires to the interruptor switch and just jumping it? Not sure where else to look, any advice would be appreciated!
