no spark in #1 cilinder

[wayne mcniven]

so my boat sat for ayear or so when i started it up it was fine when i shut it down it would not restart. it will crank but not catch. my mechanic said there is no spark in 1 cylinder and is not willing to continue. any ideas will help cause i am willing to learn. it is a 1974 40 hp evinrude. he actually said no spark in 1 and low spark in 2. he is a very good mechanic but also very and busy not really into boats. thank you

 

[ciscokid]

Well,im not very formilliar with an engine that old.Check spark plug on #1 and make shure its good,could be plug itself or spark plug wire.Check all your ground wires and make sure they are tight and clean where they are grounded.Start with that and see what happens.Good luck!!

 

[racerone]

pull the flywheel and clean / set the points.-----------No money involved in this step to see if it improves.

 

[wayne mcniven]

popped the flywheel and found what i believe to be the points condenser had the plastic coating wore off exposing the wire.as well as the sheer pin is sheered i will replace it but does that make a difference in spark? thank you.

 

[racerone]

Any pictures ??