I have a Ranger 185vs that been garage kept through the winter. Took the boat to the ramp and I was able to trim up, but when I tried to start, the ignition would not let the boat turn over. The electronics and trolling motor worked so I tried changing from the starting battery and using one trolling motor battery then the other. Even though I could initially trim the motor; now it wouldn't do anything. On the advice of a friend, I pulled it out of the water and tried jumping it. Again, no luck. I've since charged the batteries and the trim still isn't working. I'm looking for ideas on what to try next. Any and all replies appreciated but I'm a newbie when it comes to troubleshooting so please explain in detail. Boat was fine and worked perfectly last season. Jfamily

People need know year make model of motor.

2005 Yamaha 150

are you mechanically inclined?
First the trim switch, try the one on side of the motor it should work sounds like the contacts got corroded pull that switch clean it isn't that hard.

Now the ignition
Did you check the kill switch? Make sure that clip is in
When you turn the key what does are doesn't it do?

Isn't good to start are try start any boat motor with out water.
On your motor there's a hose on the left side as you look at it from behind its by the trim switch unscrew it you'll notice that's the female end to a garden hose.
You can screw a water hose to it turn the water all the way on and should see water coming out the side like normal idle it only with a water hose don't get above 2500 rpms.

Main fuse under cowling. Could have a short at the control trim wiring harness.

If your located anywhere near us bring it out and we can help you

I can get the cowling off but I'm not sure where the main fuse is located. I'm also unsure about the control trim wiring harness. Where is it located? Jfamily

I can do all the things that you suggested..I'll get back to you as to what I find out. Thanks for your help. Jfamily

It definitely isn't a battery problem...batteries are charged and electronics and horn worked perfectly off the starting battery. I tired the trim on the motor, on the gear box and a third on the steering wheel and got nothing. Took the cowling off and looked around but wasn't sure where to start. Think it might be a wire of fuse issue. I haven't used an ohm meter much but I do know that you can check for continunity but not sure how to do this. Again, any help would be appreciated. I took pictures of the engine with the cowling off if that will help as well on the side where the trim is at. Jfamily

Look for verman damage on the wiring harnes but if your not familiar with the wireing system I would take it to someone who is. If its just a fuse should be cheap to have fixed.