25 hp merc elec start question

[floatmiboat]

Hi,
I have a 97 merc 25 hp electric start with remote controls that I've had various starting problems with. Recently I went out fishing and when I went to start it up I got nothing if I turned the key, the battery is good, the starter and solenoid are fine and I read 13 volts between the battery ground and the large red terminal on the solenoid but nothing to the small red terminal when I turn the key. It starts fine if I use the pull cord with the key turned on and if I jump between the battery and the small hot solenoid terminal it will turn over fine too. Does this sound like a bad wire between the ignition key and the solenoid or could something be at fault with the ignition itself? Thanks

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: 25 hp merc elec start question

Have you checked the neutral safety switch.

 

[floatmiboat]

Re: 25 hp merc elec start question

Have you checked the neutral safety switch.

No, I had assumed that since it starts fine with the pull cord that the neutral safety switch wasn't an issue?

 

[floatmiboat]

Re: 25 hp merc elec start question

Is the neutral safety switch located on the engine or in the remote control? I think it's the little square black box closer to the rear of the motor from the solenoid?