Problem engaging gears on OMC 4.3L

seahorse5

Rear Admiral
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Jan 24, 2002
Messages
4,698
Re: Problem engaging gears on OMC 4.3L

A Johnson/Evinrude dealer can order you the factory Prestolite electronic ignition retrofit kit that includes a new ESA module and simplified wiring.<br /><br />That way you get the best of both worlds, factory designed parts and improved operation. <br /><br />Make sure the cables and shift linkage is smooth and free operationally and that everything is in adjustment.
 

mdamerell

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Nov 7, 2004
Messages
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Re: Problem engaging gears on OMC 4.3L

I have a 1992 ESA module, part number 987567, before i go and buy a new ESA Module does anyone advise on what to do now,all connections seem to be good
 

Don S

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Re: Problem engaging gears on OMC 4.3L

If you are sure all the connections are good, including the grounds, it looks like that's your next step. That is the correct ESA part number.
 

DHPMARINE

Captain
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Dec 16, 2003
Messages
3,688
Re: Problem engaging gears on OMC 4.3L

You may have ignition problems,but all the switches on your OMC are there to prevent damage to the outdrive,NOT to make it shift easy under normal conditions.<br />First step is to lower your idle speed.Sounds like you are above 1100 rpms.<br />You should be under 700 rpms.<br /><br />DHP
 

lakelivin

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Aug 19, 2004
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1,172
Re: Problem engaging gears on OMC 4.3L

Seahorse, any idea about how much the Prestolite electronic ignition retrofit kit that includes a new ESA module costs? <br /><br />I've still got the original points setup on my '89 4.3L OMC. Next time my ESA module dies wonder if it would be worth going with the kit you mentioned instead of just replacing the ESA module.
 

mdamerell

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Nov 7, 2004
Messages
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Re: Problem engaging gears on OMC 4.3L

I have dropped the revs down to around 700-800, <br /><br />Is there a way of testing the ESA<br /><br />MD
 

seahorse5

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Re: Problem engaging gears on OMC 4.3L

Originally posted by LakeLivin:<br /> Seahorse, any idea about how much the Prestolite electronic ignition retrofit kit that includes a new ESA module costs? <br /><br />
The OMC Prestolite breaker point replacement kit for a 4.3L is part number 988165, for about $216 and includes a new ESA and everything else you need.
 

seahorse5

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Re: Problem engaging gears on OMC 4.3L

Originally posted by mdamerell:<br /> <br />Is there a way of testing the ESA<br /><br />MD
At idle, depress the shift interupter switch and the engine should start to misfire and slow down. IF not, make sure there is 12V at the purple wire going into the ESA, that the ground wire is secure, and that the switches activate when they should. If all tests good, then the ESA is inoperative.
 
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