Cutout Switch Operating Backwards

[Trumpetrhapsody]

So for some reason, my cutout switch closes the circuit when it is depressed, and when it is released it is open. Obviously, this would prevent my motor from starting, since the coil never gets grounded. This is on a Mercruiser 165 btw.

Any ideas why this would be the case?

 

[Don S]

Re: Cutout Switch Operating Backwards

Which "cutout switch" are you referring to?

The shift interrupt switch (on the engines shift plate) is supposed to be open, until you are shifting out of gear while in the water.

The neutral safety switch (in the throttle/shift control) is what keeps the starter from turning if you are in gear.

They safety kill switch (with the lanyard) is what kills the ignition if you fall overboard.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Cutout Switch Operating Backwards

So for some reason, my cutout switch closes the circuit when it is depressed, and when it is released it is open. Obviously, this would prevent my motor from starting, since the coil never gets grounded. This is on a Mercruiser 165 btw.

Any ideas why this would be the case?

Ayuh,... The coil is grounded by the Points,... That's how it knows When to Fire,...

 

[Trumpetrhapsody]

Re: Cutout Switch Operating Backwards

Oh whoops, duh! For some reason I was thinking it was positive triggered, and needed to be grounded all the time. Thanks for the clarification!

Sounds like my switch is working as intended.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Cutout Switch Operating Backwards

FYI the coil fires when the points OPEN (breaking contact with ground), so when your SI switch closes (making contact with ground), it is the same as the points not opening, result no spark.