Starting (ignition?) problem on my Yanmar F15

ptpaulie · Sep 21, 2010

Well, I'm back to working on this and it seems to be at the starting switch or maybe the starter solenoid?? (but I don't know where that is). When I first turn the key to "on", the dash lights turn on. Then when I turn to start it, it goes "click" and nothing else. The dash lights also turn off, but when I turn the key to "off" and then back "on" the dash lights do not go back on. Only if I let it sit for a few minutes, do the lights go back on when I turn the key to on. Any suggestions would be very appreciated!!
Paul:confused2:

winston1 · Sep 21, 2010

What goes click when you turn the key to crank? The switch or the solenoid?

Neat 1500 · Sep 22, 2010

turn the key to crank and release repeatedly and see what it does.sounds like a faulty solenoid.

normde2001 · Sep 22, 2010

Replace the key switch.

ptpaulie · Sep 22, 2010

I only hear and get 1 "tick" before everything goes dead for several minutes and the click sound comes from somewhere other than the switch. Near or at the starter I think.

winston1 · Sep 22, 2010

You need to break out the voltmeter and see what you are getting at the solenoid and starter.

mrutkaus · Sep 23, 2010

let us know, my neighbor JUST came over with the IDENTICAL problem with his F15.

Mike

EDIT: I found the problem. The large red white wire at the starter (which goes directly to the ignition switch) has a connector and fusible link before it connects to the starter terminal (direct to battery +). This fusible link was burned out. Reconnected temporarily w/o link and starts and runs and panel lights ok. Possible reason: frayed rear turn signal wire may have shorted out some stuff in the left panel area. quite afew wires in that area were burned thru or eaten by mice, hard to tell. Disconnected those connectors, seems all is well.

ptpaulie · Oct 15, 2010

I found the problem...Two reasons. One big one was a loose ground wire and the other was tape that was covering the two wires overriding the clutch engage to start button had come off and shorted out against metal framing.
Thanks to all for your help!! Paul:thumbsup: