rookie mistake!

[evilwind1]

I think I inadvertently deleted my post but here is the short version. Hooked up battery terminals wrong ( - to + ) and the engine electronics sizzled and popped. After I put the terminals on the right way the motor started right up as usual.Do you think I did any permanent damage or did the breaker just give and then reset? I thought I fried everything. anyway it started up and ran well on the water all day. Is there any area in specific I should look over for problems?
Also what would cause the engine to be hard turning over the first couple of cranks? Once I start cranking it will start right up but at times there seems to be a second or two hesitation between cranks. Is there a timing adjust on this motor (1983 Evinrude 90). I will check all connections and flywheel keyway.
Thankyou for feedback and advice.

 

[mrcj001]

Re: rookie mistake!

Well, the regulator/rectifier is fried. That is your charging system.

The hesitation on cranking the engine could be a worn starter, bad or loose connection, or bad / low battery.

 

[evilwind1]

Re: rookie mistake!

Yeah, that would make sense, I'll buy a new one of whatever I need and chalk it up to experience. Thanks !

 

[bktheking]

Re: rookie mistake!

You probably just fried the rectifier, not a big deal.

 

[evilwind1]

Re: rookie mistake!

Thanks , I can deal with that. Where should I order one from?

 

[bktheking]

Re: rookie mistake!

IBOATS should have them cheap. Test it before replacing it BTW.

 

[evilwind1]

Re: rookie mistake!

Iv'e got to check but it might even be a 1984 , the 6 amp is $40. and the 10 amp is $250.00. I will check the voltage output before I buy a new one.

 

[bktheking]

Re: rookie mistake!

83 and 84 are different so be sure, 84 they went to a combo reg/rect , 83 were split. Regulator is only used on power trim models as well.

 

[evilwind1]

Re: rookie mistake!

One thing I know is it isn't power tilt/trim,

 

[bktheking]

Re: rookie mistake!

Well then it won't have a regulator, the regulators only existed on power T&T models, it most likely has just a rectifier, which can be replaced on the cheap. Pull the cover off and follow the yellow wires off the wire block , little round cylinder bolted to the powerhead is the rectifier, remove the wires from the block and test it using the diode function on a meter, diodes will only allow current to flow in 1 direction.

 

[evilwind1]

Re: rookie mistake!

Thanks , I think I'm gonna be alright with this one, better than having to shell out $250.00!
So, I'll change that (after I check voltage output)and then I would like to check the timing. Is it set or can I adjust it? This motor has been great to me and I owe it nothing and it moves my 21" Cobia cuddy along very nicely. I'm just limited to spending too much money so I like to try to figure some things out for myself .
*Also, this forum has helped me out time and time again, thank you all!

 

[F_R]

Re: rookie mistake!

DON'T mess with the timing unless you have good reason to believe somebody else has already messed with it.