OMC ESA module

[aldwill49]

I have a 1986 4.3L V6 OMC Cobra. I believe my Electron Shift Assist module is bad. Since when I activivate the switch, the engine dies. According to what I have read it should only change the timing to lower the idle during the gear engaging. Is there any way to check this other than what I just did?<br /><br />Also I found two replacements. <br /><br />1. CDI replacement module ~ $84 + shipping <br />2. OEM module 984036 - ~$96 + shipping<br /><br />I am open to suggestions on other locations or modules?<br />Thanks

 

[Boatin Bob]

Re: OMC ESA module

ESA should only stumble the engine and not stall it however if your engine idle is too low or poorly tuned that can happen. The module should pulse ground to the coil causing it not to fire half the time. Your idle should probably be somewhere between 600-700 rpms.

 

[aldwill49]

Re: OMC ESA module

I initially thought the idle maybe to low. So I adjusted it up to 1000 rpms. Still clicking the switch causes the engine to die. No sputtering, just like I turned off the ingition switch. It appears that it is not pulsing as it should. Is this a normal type failure? <br /><br />Any idea on the dependability of the CDI replacement over the OEM more expensive module?

 

[Boatin Bob]

Re: OMC ESA module

Don't know about the CDI module and the only time I had to change my ESA was for the opposite, when you lifted the switch nothing happened. Fortunately for me I have twins so it was easy to swap out to prove it was the module. Yours does sound like the module though, I suppose it's possible for it to put out a solid ground instead of pulsing. For the extra few $$ I would go with the OEM.

 

[aldwill49]

Re: OMC ESA module

I now find the CDI modules for ~ $55 , Thats about 40% less. With that much savings, I may even change the ignition coil, since it looks to be original.<br /><br />Has anyone else had experience with CDI modules.

 

[butch290]

Re: OMC ESA module

49 Did you go from points, condenser, to soildstate ignition?<br /><br />butch

 

[aldwill49]

Re: OMC ESA module

no, replace points, condenser, rotor cap and wires. Just wanted to know if the Repair CDI replacement is Ok, or to pay the extra 40% to get an OEM replacement.

 

[butch290]

Re: OMC ESA module

49 My boat has a CDI on it. OEM did not make one for soildstate ignition, save your money.<br /><br />butch