Can a slightly low battery cause no spark?

[philtheskipper]

I've been having problems with no spark on my Suzuki outboard. The other day I charged my batteries on a long trickle charge and it then fired right up. So, I went out on the lake and it ran great. My voltage meter showed it was charging good(both batteries). I got to my fishing spot and shut it off, then switched to just one battery. When I went to start it with both batteries it wouldn't start. Seemed like it was cranking as usual but after awhile it did start to slow a little. Do you think I just have a bad battery or something? The way it was cranking seemed like it had enough juice. Do these electronic ignition systems need 100% power to get a spark?

 

[JB]

Re: Can a slightly low battery cause no spark?

Depends on the year and model of your engine, Phil.<br /><br />Moving to Suzuki Troubles.

 

[philtheskipper]

Re: Can a slightly low battery cause no spark?

Sorry, it's a 1989 Suzuki DT140.

 

[jim dozier]

Re: Can a slightly low battery cause no spark?

Before you get all wound up about the ignition go buy a spark tester and test the spark in each cylinder. If its OK your problem is probably fuel. There is a difference between no spark and no fire. Suzuki ignitions are pretty strong.

 

[philtheskipper]

Re: Can a slightly low battery cause no spark?

Thanks for the advice jimd but I already checked the spark for each cylinder with my trusty home made tester. The spark plugs are getting wet when cranking so the fuel should be good. I just had the carbs rebuilt and cleaned at the end of June also. I'm off to have the batteries checked right now. Hopefully that's my problem.

 

[philtheskipper]

Re: Can a slightly low battery cause no spark?

Both batteries tested bad.

 

[jim dozier]

Re: Can a slightly low battery cause no spark?

No that is good. You have identified the problem

 

[philtheskipper]

Re: Can a slightly low battery cause no spark?

I bought two new batteries today. Is two 500 cca marine batteries enough power for my engine? I bought them from Sears because that's what was in there to begin with and they lasted 5 years. My concern is the old batteries were 575 cca. Same model and size battery but they changed the ratings on them. I would of got the next size up but it won't fit in my battery compartment.