ignition/starter wiring question

rspecops · Post by **rspecops** » Thu Jan 12, 2012 1:29 pm

I started re-wiring gauges and switches on my 1978 F26 F/B. Got a little quick in disconnecting some wires from the splice terminal box which was behind master switch and hour meter board. Anyway the boat has been re-powered with a 1997 crusader 350. I did determine that the two lower wires from this splice terminal box in helm went to the starter and starter relay. But one wire, the lowest wire feeds what seems to be an ignition relay which is mounted at/near the starter relay.. My question is does this "ignition relay" part number 14089936 just get momentary voltage when switch is turned to start or does it need constant voltage after start up in order to feed something else other than starter system???

larryeddington · Post by **larryeddington** » Thu Jan 12, 2012 3:54 pm

Pictures would help

Paul · Post by **Paul** » Thu Jan 12, 2012 8:40 pm

I believe that this relay requires momentary voltage from you start switch. The relay in turn sends a signal to the starter solenoid.

captainmaniac · Post by **captainmaniac** » Thu Jan 12, 2012 8:46 pm

Any chance the person who re-wired stuck to the wiring codes? Original wiring diagrams will indicate what colour and gauge of wire was used for what... If they stuck to the codes, might help you figure out what the wires are each for.

larryeddington · Post by **larryeddington** » Thu Jan 12, 2012 9:41 pm

if the original was a chrysler or ford the switch runs directly to the starter, Now we have a GM system which uses a magnetic actuated gearing that actuates the starter solonoid when power applied. That said you may not need the old starter switch only a 12 start wire to the starter/solonoid. IMO

rspecops · Post by **rspecops** » Fri Jan 13, 2012 12:58 am

I think, about 99% sure I have found the answer to my question which may help someone else if ever faced with this. Spoke with a marine mechanic today. He informed that the little plastic box relay which is mounted behind the starter relay on my engine is used only with the TB model engines having fuel injection. Mine has a carb and most likely a mechanical fuel pump so that little relay is there only for looks with my engine. I took a hot 12 v jumper wire and got the starter to turn. then hooked it to the wire that apparently led to the little relay and all it did was click and nothing else seemed to happen. Oh yea, looks like the mechanic that did the repower was color blind. No such color code conformance. I'm slowly getting it in shape (correctly). Thanks for the replys.