Okay so I took the family to the lake and they were in the boat...When my brother-in-law went to start the engine, nothing happened. The fuel gauge moved, but that was it...I thought maybe it was the battery, so we bought a new one. Put in the new one, nothing...I've pulled out the ignition switch, but it's been siliconed, so I can't really test it...I've checked the wires on the starter, but they are fine. I can't imagine what it is...Obviously the engine isn't getting power from the ignition, but I'm at a loss...Yes, I've checked the kill switch.

This is a 1992 Mercury Force 120.

Thanks

First try manually connecting the points on the starter solenoid. If the engine turns then the starter is good. That tells you there is a short somewhere in the wiring from the switch to the solenoid. I had this problem and it turned out to be a short yellow wire that ran from the breaker panel to the solenoid that was shorted out, replaced it and it worked fine. I have a Chrysler motor which is nearly identical to a force, the ignition wires should all be yellow. Hope this helps.

ya wat prater said

I appreciate all the advice...Turns out it was a stupid new to me boat experience...This control box is a LOT different than any I've used previously and we had to pull out on the throttle to put it in neutral and to get the engine to engage....

Thanks again!

LoneStar,
Glad you got it running. That control box is unlike any I've ever heard of too. When you push the throttle back in, it keeps running, right? Try to start it in the neutral position without pulling out on the throttle, and see if it turns over, may be a coincidence that it started.

When you had your issue, would the trim work? If you have the problem again, there is a known issue with the 120. You will have power at the panel (fuel gauge and amps) but nothing in back (no starter, choke or trim).If that is the case, uncowl the engine.

There is a large black cannon plug on the rear of the engine, just to the right of the spark plugs. Wiggle or reseat that plug while someone holds the trim button, NOT THE STARTER. They are notorious for getting corrosion on the pins and losing all power to the engine.

Hope your issue is the funky control, but if it happens again this is the first place you need to check.

Happy Boating
Prpjt