Problem starting tohatsu 4-stroke

NSS · 08 October 2011, 11:34

Hi all. Anyone got any ideas what this problem might be?

Engine failed to re-start leaving Cowes last Sunday. On turn of key in remote control box all I get is an audible 'beep' from the alarm sounder in the control box. Thought it was most likely the neutral safety switch but have just replaced this and it's made no difference.

Switch is making/breaking correctly on the cam and all wiring appears to be connected and undamaged but no joy.

Goes in and out of gear okay, and have physically checked it is out of gear when in neutral position (prop spins freely both ways).

Any thoughts as to possible problem would be much appreciated.

Poly · 08 October 2011, 13:36

Does an 18HP twatsu have a recoil starter as well as electric? If so can you start it manually? You probably need to get poking about with a multimeter. Personally I'd suspect corrosion in the battery isolator switch - enough power getting through to "beep" but not enough to do anything useful... I guess starter solenoids could also be at fault. Some jump leads and and a good battery might help your rule things in/out.

NSS · 08 October 2011, 17:38

Thanks Polwart. Battery fully charged and isolator switch is clean as new (no corrosion). It has a pull start but won't start on it (engages and turns over but no sign of it firing on the pull cord). Plenty of fuel so that's not the issue either. I'll have a poke around with a multimeter tomorrow, though electrics are NOT my strong suit! Would I be right to assume, as it won't fire on the pull cord, that it's likely to be something on the motor itself rather than the remote?

m chappelow · 08 October 2011, 18:08

Any .kill switch fitted

NSS · 08 October 2011, 18:30

Quote:

Originally Posted by m chappelow

Any .kill switch fitted

Yes, both on the remote and on the motor itself, although the latter is inactive.

Poly · 08 October 2011, 20:02

Quote:

Originally Posted by m chappelow

Any .kill switch fitted

Kill switch normally stops the spark but not it turning over.

NSS · 08 October 2011, 21:40

Quote:

Originally Posted by Polwart

Kill switch normally stops the spark but not it turning over.

So probably not the kill switch then?

NSS · 09 October 2011, 10:16

Well, by a process of elimination, and the assistance of someone who actually knows how to use a multimeter, it seems fairly conclusive that it's the starter solenoid that has failed.

Have now managed to get it to fire on the pull cord - not sure why it wouldn't previously.

Thanks for your suggestions guys.

NSS · 15 October 2011, 14:53

Just a quick update. It was indeed the starter motor solenoid. Ordered from RibShop and arrived within two days. Excellent service by both RibShop and Tohatsu - again. Thanks K - much appreciated.