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Ignition problem on 454 XL with MSTSd

H

heinie

New member
I have 1993 Crusader 454XL with the MSTS system. For about a week, when I turned the key to "on" the starter would kick over and start the boat. The starter would disengage and ran fine so I used the boat in fishing tournament.

Yesterday I was trying to diagnose my problem. Changed out the ignition switch, itself...same problem. Went to start the boat again and now the ignition switch is working properly except the boat will not fire now.

I check the coil on the other engine, it is fine. I switched the MSTS boxes, they are working properly. I have NOT changed the cap or the rotor.

Anyone have any idea what might be going on here?

Thanks in advance!

Adam
 
Welcome to the Board.

The starter control circuit really hasn't changed much over the past few decades so it's not likely to be coupled to the MSTS. Besides the switch, you have the harness and the starter solenoid chains. Assuming you diagnosed the problem (vs. just swapping parts), the cause should be self evident. based on your description, it soulds like the YEL/RED starter wire is receving +12V prematurely, for the 'early start' issue.

..."boat will not fire." Assuming this means no spark, so no engine start. Best to properly diagnose this one. Could be the relay, the infamous factory ballast resistor, or the distributor module. Start by looking for +12V with the key ON, at the + terminal on the coil. if not there, the issue is between the coil and the switch; if present, concentrate on the distributor.

BTW, it could be a harness issue impacting both of your issues.
 
I am having a similar problem; I get just a click when I try to start the motor. Last week I jumped the solenoid several times then the starter went into action. Now the problem is back. It feels like it has a low batteries but I have placed three fully charged batteries to insure enough cranking amps. I put on a new starter solenoid (the one ahead of the starter under the circuit breaker and am having the same problem with no change. Any ideas on what is causing the problem?
 
Chuckms said:
I am having a similar problem; I get just a click when I try to start the motor. Last week I jumped the solenoid several times then the starter went into action. Now the problem is back. It feels like it has a low batteries but I have placed three fully charged batteries to insure enough cranking amps. I put on a new starter solenoid (the one ahead of the starter under the circuit breaker and am having the same problem with no change. Any ideas on what is causing the problem?
Click to expand...


Maybe the on-starter solenoid. Easily found at the auto parts store.
 
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