1986 Searay 205 merc cruiser NO SPARK

"We are trouble shooting a 198

"We are trouble shooting a 1986 Searay 205 Merc Cruiser that has no spark from the coil.

Hear the events that lead to the no spark issue.

When returning to that ramp it was noticed that the volt meter was pegged out on the high end.
with the engine still running the battery selection switch ( two batteries, 4 position switch off/ battery 1 / battery 2 / both batteries ) was turned. at that time the boat died and would not start. At this time spark cannot be achieved. Please advise on how to troubleshoot the ignition system for spark

THANKS"

"Todd...first of all you poste

"Todd...first of all you posted this in the OMC section and you will probably get more response in the Mercruiser section.
Do you have a safety lanyard switch? This is something that attaches to you with a stretch cord and if pulled will kill the engine by opening the coil circuit, some people don't realize they have done this and then try to start the engine with it off, engine crank fine but will never fire as it gets no spark.
When you switched the battery switch which position did it go to? Hopefully not off as this could result in blowing the regulator in the alternator as it no longer can sense the battery voltage and kills itself trying to compensate. You need to have the "Make before break" type of switch although you never switch them to off while running."