How can I tell if my ESA is dead?

[rybad]

1989 OMC Cobra/5.7<br /><br />It seems that last year, I checked both ESA's, and STBD was working by clicking the switch on the shift assembly, but my PORT side did nothing. I attempted to check again after making some idle and cable adjustments, and both sides do nothing now.<br /><br />I havent tried to jump the switch yet, but was wondering if there is a sure fire way to test the ESA module before I order two new ones. I want make sure they are actually bad and not just a switch or something else that I didnt check.<br /><br />Thanks.

 

[marlinempress]

Re: How can I tell if my ESA is dead?

unplug the switches and hook up an ohmmeter. It should switch between no continuity and continuity while moving the switch.

 

[rybad]

Re: How can I tell if my ESA is dead?

Thanks.. I'll do that tonight.<br /><br />Any idea where to get replacement ESA's if I need to?? Or switches? (Other than local boat store - I don't want a second mortgage)

 

[Boatin Bob]

Re: How can I tell if my ESA is dead?

David...the 2 switches are wired together in series and all they do is complete a ground circuit back into the ESA module. If you use a meter just remember that the interrupt switch is normally open and the overstroke is normally closed so either one not working will cause the ESA not to work. If you look at the 4 pin connector from the ESA side you will se that 2 wires are really just a jumper to take the signal from one switch to the other.

 

[rybad]

Re: How can I tell if my ESA is dead?

OK, so I can test each switch individually to make sure they work, but what about the ESA module itself? Is there any kind or reading that I can look for by probing the connetor??<br /><br />BTW, I found replacement ESA modules on ebasicpower.com for $58.00 I ordered one to use as a test.. I will try it on both motors, if it works, I'll order another one and call it a day. I also found a place that has the switches for around $14 .. I'm pretty happy today about all of this as far as $$$ goes.

 

[Boatin Bob]

Re: How can I tell if my ESA is dead?

As far as testing the ESA goes I gave up on that years ago. I found that if you have 12v to it, all grounds are good, the switches and wires check OK then there is nothing else but the module itself. Besides that for me it was easy as the past 2 boats have had twin Cobras and swapping was easy.<br /><br />That seems like a very good price for the module, last time I bought one it was around $100 CDN and the overstroke switch I bought was $60 CDN. Let us know how you make out.