Starting problem 1998 175 carb evinrude

[sfc2113]

Well the cold weather is here and I have run into a starting problem. It usually is slow to start in the cold but never has it not started.

The engine did this twice:

I go through my usual startup routine: prime the bulb firm, turn the key on and let sit for a min after all the systems check are done. push key in to prime and crank for 15 sec

wait one min and crank again 15 20 sec ( usually it fires up after 2-3 times) but the last 2 times not so much. I prime, crank and crank it wont kick over. Eventually I drain the batts.
I pulled the plugs and they have fuel on em, so I know I am getting fuel. So I checked the connectors on the control box and optical sensor. After I unplugged the optical senor and reconnected it it fired up.

I am pretty convinced it is not getting spark. But dont want to throw parts at it. Also I noticed my rmp guage is at 3000 rpm when cranking , thats cant be right? Everything is original in the motor and runs great. I did a compression test and all cly are 95-98 psi.


Has anoyone had this issue and what did you do to fix it?

 

[Will Bark]

Probably need to have your batterys load tested they may be weaker than you think. Good luck

 

[sfc2113]

Thanks will, but we load tested batts, they were 100%, voltage drops to 11v when cranking.

 

[racerone]

Slow cranking means a " no spark condition " so do a test to see if there is spark ( must jump a 7/16" gap ) at the plug wires on cold start-up.----Leave all 6 plugs in for this test.