'68 60HP SportFour charging issue

[WillsPride]

Today when starting my recently acquired Evinrude for the first time I incorrectly connected a cable to the wrong battery terminal. Wire become hot enough to burn off insulation near the battery and white smoke under the dash near the ignition switch. I quickly disconnected the offending wire and started the engine. Ran fine but the red ignition light on the dashboard stays on with the engine running and only goes out when engine is shut down by turning off the ignition switch. What might I have damaged??

 

[F_R]

Since it runs, you haven't destroyed the $$$amplifier. However, it is guaranteed you destroyed the alternator rectifier and possibly melted the wires going to it. Depending on which diodes went first, it could have damaged the stator, but that doesn't happen often.

The ignition on light is supposed to light anytime the key is in the on position. If memory serves me correctly, it is supposed to be a green bulb, but that doesn't really matter.

Replace the rectifier and see how it goes. I predict all will be well.

 

[F_R]

BTW, I attempted to look up the rectifier part number for you, but there is a small problem. The 1968 was 65hp, not 60. 1967 was 60hp. There is a big difference in electrical systems.
1967 60hp rectifier is CDI part number 153-0656
1968 65hp rectifier is CDI part number 153-0705
As long as you are buying a rectifier anyway, you might as well get the new and improved version that regulates the voltage, preventing battery overcharging. For the regulated rectifier, change the 153 to 193.

 

[jimmbo]

The SportFour was made in 1964, 65, and 66 as well. These used a generator. Just mentioning as the OP didn't provide a model number, and had quoted the wrong year.

 

[F_R]

That's a good point. Just goes to show we need to know what model we are talking about.

 

[WillsPride]

BTW, I attempted to look up the rectifier part number for you, but there is a small problem. The 1968 was 65hp, not 60. 1967 was 60hp. There is a big difference in electrical systems.
1967 60hp rectifier is CDI part number 153-0656
1968 65hp rectifier is CDI part number 153-0705
As long as you are buying a rectifier anyway, you might as well get the new and improved version that regulates the voltage, preventing battery overcharging. For the regulated rectifier, change the 153 to 193.

Thanks very much!

 

[WillsPride]

The SportFour was made in 1964, 65, and 66 as well. These used a generator. Just mentioning as the OP didn't provide a model number, and had quoted the wrong year.

My bad....the engine is a '67. The boat is a '68. Is the rectifier a simple job to replace? I'm all at sea when it comes to electronic work. Obviously

 

[F_R]

Simple. Five screws right out in the open and you are done. Probably should disconnect the battery first to be on the safe side.

 

[WillsPride]

Simple. Five screws right out in the open and you are done. Probably should disconnect the battery first to be on the safe side.

Thanks. Even I shouldn't stuff that up