Yanmar YSM8 starting issues

[Randy Cadenhead]

My YSM8 (now 40 years old, but in good working order) won't start. I've replaced my batteries, checked voltage at every relevant point, changed the starter and ignition switch out. It was working perfectly, until it refused to start one day.

I can't find any reliable help (Lake Lanier, Georgia) and so am on my own. I can only guess that the control panel and/or engine side wiring harnesses have problems. Their gauges are not up to modern standards, but Yanmar doesn't make them now.

I'm thinking of wiring the ignition switch directly to the solenoid to bypass the harness wiring. Any thoughts or suggestions?

[Wolfe10]

Randy,


Will need for detailed information:


Does the engine turn over? Normal speed? Slower than normal speed?


With your digital voltmeter, what is voltage at the starter before cranking? While cranking?

[Cheechako]

Does it turn?
On most engines you can usually jump the solenoid to see if it's a starter issue or wiring etc.
https://www.google.com/search?q=jump...client=gws-wiz

[Randy Cadenhead]

It doesn't turn over. I don't even get a click at the solenoid. I register 13 volts at the starter at rest, but haven't been able to get it to turn over to test voltage at that point.

Thanks!

[Halifax Sailor]

I have a 1978 YSB8. When I first bought the boat, I had the same issue at anchor. On mine, there is a small white wire on the starter solenoid that the clip was very loose, no contact. Crimped it again so its tight. No issues. Before I crimped it, no clicks, no start, no nothing.

[jkishel]

First step is to check battery cable connections, especially ground cable connection to engine block. Once the battery cable connections are confirmed good we can go from there.

[Randy Cadenhead]

A follow up report. The original wiring harness turned out to be too old to carry the needed voltage. I wired directly from the switch to the starter with a new and better gauge. Bingo!
Thanks to all.