As I said in another post I don't have an ignition key to a 1975 85hp Evinrude. I saw a guy in YouTube bypass the ignition system by connecting jumper cables to the solenoid motor, and the solenoid rod pushed up and engaged the "cog" on top of the motor. When I did the same thing, nothing, but when I connected the cables to the solenoid unit, its "cog shaft" spinned quickly but did not go up to engage the "large cog." How do I use a multimeter to see if either or both units, especially the solenoid motor, are weak or need repair or need to be replaced?

First off lubricate the starter bendix, above the teeth and on the shaft with a light weight oil. Make sure the battery is charged. Connect the battery to the battery leads in the boat. Jumper between the + battery connection post and the yellow-red strip post of the starter solenoid and starter should spin up and engage the flywheel. The solenoid either works or not. It must have 12v to operate. The starter can have problems from worn or dry bearings, week brush`s or bad starter bendix.

Thank you! I'll try it in the morning. Submitted new variation titled BYPASS IGNITION SWITCH. Thanks again.