Electrical question-boat won't run when I let go of key

[Valenti56]

My boat was winterized last fall and the boat shop installed a new volt gauge and replaced a navigational switch. Now when I go to start my boat, the engine won't run if I let go of the key. Could this be related to the repairs that were done? Haven't had the boat out since it was winterized and the repairs were done. Thanks

 

[wilkin250r]

Re: Electrical question-boat won't run when I let go of key

It doesn't sound likely. Changing guages should be just a matter of disconnecting the old wires and plugging in new ones. They shouldn't have touched the key. Then again, I'm not sure of the exact repairs that were done, so I can't tell you for sure.<br /><br />Can you provide more detail? What do you mean "let go of the key"? Does the key move when you let it go?

 

[Buttanic]

Re: Electrical question-boat won't run when I let go of key

Does it have a point type ignition? If it does it is possible that the resistance wire from the ignition switch to the coil is bad.

 

[Bayrider]

Re: Electrical question-boat won't run when I let go of key

The key ignition switch my have gone faulty witch can happen.

 

[broark01]

Re: Electrical question-boat won't run when I let go of key

This is just a guess since we don't know year, make, model of boat/power pack or exactly what "I let go of the key" means but I had a similar problem. I checked many things and ran many tests but what it turned out to be was that the kill switch on the safety lanyard was PARTILLY engaged. I just couldn't tell it was engaged until I was on my hands and knees and looked at it. Boat would run as long as the starter was turning. Just had to flip the kill switch into the off position and it was fixed.<br /><br />Good Luck!