No Trim on Control = No Start

[gdchappell]

115hp Merc (S/N 0T017630) will not start when trim adjustment on throtle control is inoperative. Also, when trim adjustment on throtle dead, panel gagues are dead. During this time however, trim controls on motor work and horn blows. I do not know if this is related, but the Tach needle will often "float" to max RPM indication although no start condition exists. Problem intermittent.

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: No Trim on Control = No Start

Welcome to iboats.<br /><br />Sounds like a fuse problem. The same fuse is responsible for the starting circuit, gauges, and remote trim switch. It's on the motor, probably near the starter. The horn and any lights or pumps are on a separate boat systems fuse, and the motor-mounted trim switch also has it's own fuse. Make sure your battery connections are clean and tight.<br /><br />Just so we're on the same page, 2-stroke or 4-stroke?

 

[gdchappell]

Re: No Trim on Control = No Start

The year 2000 Merc 115hp is a 2-stroke

 

[gdchappell]

Re: No Trim on Control = No Start

OK... I've checked the fuse (20A automotive "blade-type") and found no problem... replaced it anyway. I've traced out some of the wiring and found a couple suspect connectors (they were not tight), going to the trim solenoids but no smoking gun. I've also cleaned the batt terms (they were somewhat in need). Since the problem was intermittent, it's hard to know for sure. <br /><br />I'm having a difficult time finding the wire that feeds the start switch and the instruments. Any ideas?

 

[gdchappell]

Re: No Trim on Control = No Start

AllRight!! Found the problem! Turns out the problem is the long connector on the engine that connects the engine wiring to the long cable bundle going to the console. Wiggle the connector and you loose the 12+V (fused, red w/ purple stripe)going to the ignigition switch.<br /><br />Upon inspection, the pins in this connector seem loose in their sockets. Plus, there seems to be a type of black grease on the connectors. Speculation: someone used the wrong type of grease (non-conductive) on it (I'm the second owner).<br /><br />Question: How do I tightned the male pins in the female sockets? Also, what reccomendations does anyone have for a **conductive** anti-corrosion grease?

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: No Trim on Control = No Start

Look at the male pins.They are 'split' on the ends.Carefully,using a knife blade,open the slit,but only about a 32th to a 16th of an inch.They can break,and be a real problem.<br />Cause usually is on the boat wiring side,as manufacturers use an aftermarket harness.I've also seen this problem at the control box,where a Merc harness is plugged into an aftermarket harness.<br />DHP