Hooked up battery wrong. Need help

[KGWOOD]

I have a 205 Bayliner Capri. 5 Litre 220hp, 305. I have had issues in past starting the boat. Very often it would just click when trying to start. I would clean battery
posts and then it would work. Cleaning the posts never worked this time so I thought I would just try a different battery. Well I hooked it up wrong and had smoke
coming from some of the wires. I checked all fuses under the steering column and they are all fine. I had to replace fuse to radio. Are there any other fuses hidden
in or around the motor I could check before checking the rest. Without taking things apart what is the best way to check alternator, starter, solenoid or whatever else
I may have damaged. With some help I feel I can fix this myself without having to take it in. Would like to hear from someone who has knowledge in this.

 

[Fun Times]

Hi there, welcome to iboats!

About how long were the cables connected in reveres?

Have you tried connecting the batteries up correctly and starting the engine to see what seems wrong such as the charging system maybe.

If there is no power to the helm area then keep in mind that there is a 90 amp fuse located at the starter where the battery cable connects to the starter that could be blown.

 

[KGWOOD]

I have put in a fully charged battery and all it does is still click. The cables were connected for about 7 or 8 seconds. long enough to build up smoke from
the wires running along or towards alternator. I will look for the 90 amp fuse. What's the easiest way using the multi metre to check that power is getting to
starter etc.

 

[KGWOOD]

without having to purchase a manual do you know anywhere on the web where I could find a schematic drawing of the 5 litre MerCruiser motor

 

[jhebert]

... I feel I can fix this myself...

What's the easiest way using the multi metre to check that power is getting to
starter...

I am curious how you are going to fix this yourself if you don't know how to use a multi-meter to measure voltage.

Generally, when a battery is connected with reversed polarity, there is a great risk of damage to any diodes in the alternator circuit which are now forward-biased and will conduct practically the full short-circuit current of the battery. Your report of smoke confirms that a very high current was flowing during the time you had the battery connected with reverse polarity. There is a high probability you have destroyed some diodes in the alternator circuit.

 

[KGWOOD]

It may not seem like it, but I am mechanically inclined. I have changed out my water pump and changed alternator's, along with my stator and clutch in my Rhino.
I can read a multi metre, but it is the where, when and why that I need help with. Just not sure which leads to put on which items. Do I need someone to turn
key etc. I will admit that electrical is not for me. Once I find out what the problems are I don't have an issue with changing them. Good old u-tube has worked for
me in the past, but this isn't my truck or UTV. Just looking for a bit of guidance. Thank you for any info.