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1968 evinrude 40hp electric shift with generator

M

mokey

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I have purchased my first boat. A 1968 Bonito Tri-hull. I have put a 1968 Evinrude 2 cyl. 40hp on it that has selectric shift. Here's my problem: I've gotten the repair manual and wired everything according to diagram. However I get nothing when I turn the ignition. It seems as though I have power to the selenoid (which is new) but nowhere else. Any hellp would be appreciated. Also what is the "ammeter" switch for?
 
We'll need a better description of your problem. You say "It seems as though I have power to the selenoid (which is new) but nowhere else." Does this mean that when you turn the key to START, the solenoid engages and the electric starter cranks the engine over? I have no idea what you might mean by an Ammeter Switch.

A electric shift engine would require a Ammeter Gauge due to the fact that it must have a generator.
 
Have you tried bypassing the solinoid? How have you determined you are getting power to the solinoid? Have you ever had the engine running? We need a little more information in order to help.
 
I found out that the "Ammeter" switch switches the current either "from the battery" or "from the generator". I had power to the solenoid and that's where it stopped. Just out of curiosity I changed the "ammeter" switch and can now crank the motor over. Apparently, and this is just a guess, I open the ammeter to start (off the battery) and then once started, close it to use the generator. Does this sound right?
Thanks for the help.
 
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I have never had the motor running. It came with the selectric shift harness attached to it..I've spent a week re-wireing it according to the manual. After changing the ammeter switch I can now turn it over but, it doesn't fire. I'm now going to check the points and maybe clean the carb. I only get to work on it a couple hours a day (if) so i don't know when I'll get to do the points.
 
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