hi, i have a 1989 70hp motor. here recently when i start it i dont hear the beep when i turn the key. it used to make a beeping noise. and then when i start it it wont do anything for 3 or 4 times and then it will give me a weak start. any ideas?

the nothing for 3 or 4 tries followed by a weak start, in my experience, means one of two things: either 1> battery is just about to kick the bucket; or 2> corrosion/loose connection on a battery post.

Connectors need to be clean, I mean make 'em shine (hint: sandpaper), and tight-tight-tight! if you use wing nuts, take pliers to 'em. If you have more than one ring connector on a battery post (and who among us doesn't), they can get some corrosion between 'em where you can't see it.

Loose connections kill rectifiers.