electrical issue

[bimini crickets]

new to the forum, so if this is in the wrong section; I apologize in advance.

I just purchased a 2003 Mariah SC21 cuddy with a Merc 4.3MPI 220hp. I noticed when I turned the stereo above 17 it cut out and came back on and restarted the cd. I didn't think much about it until I realized that it would do the same thing at lower speeds when I trimmed the outboard and noticed the gauges are all over the place, especially the tach (which sticks) So, I'm wondering if anyone here has experience with this. I think I have either;

1) A bad ground
2) an over/under charging problem
3) just a weak battery (I think it is original)
the stereo is original equipment as well, and there don't seem to be any cobbed in modifications to the electrical system. the only items added (by dealer) are a fish finder and a docking light.

I have a couple other small problems as well, but we'll deal with them one at a time

any suggestions on where to look or what may be causing this issue would be greatly appreciated...thanks!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: electrical issue

Battery cable connections: Clean the terminals at both ends. Looking at them is not good enough.

 

[bimini crickets]

Re: electrical issue

thank you very much, I had seen a post very similar right after I posted mine. thanks for the advice...I'll do that today.

 

[bimini crickets]

Re: electrical issue

cleaned the terminals and the connections on the battery and cables (both + and -) and it did not help at all.

Could I just have a weak battery? It is listed as a two year battery and I think it might be original, which would make it about five years old...

it will only play the radio up until about 19 (volume) and even below that if I turn on my dock lights or trim up/down.

the stereo shuts off and then comes right back on and then off again if there is still too much "load"...

I'm starting to think I need a new battery, but I would hate to spend that much if I don't have to.

The gauges are also all over the place, which might also be caused be insufficient power..

thanks to anyone who may be able to help....

 

[Silvertip]

Re: electrical issue

Remove the battery, charge it fully, and then take it to any auto parts store. They will load test it -- generally for no charge.