no spark

[eagle 300]

I have a 88 johnson 300 v8 with no spark. what are the common problems?

[lokinutz]

No spark at all? I would start by checking voltage to the powerpack/s (yellow/red wire) while cranking. If your battery isn't up to it, you will never get spark while cranking. Bad cables will also cause this, as will a corroded batt. shut off switch (causes too much voltage drop). If you have AT LEAST 10.5 volts while cranking, then possible powerpack/s or stator issues.

[modisguy]

if you do not have a service manual, pull main red (round connector) under cowling and crank engine right at starter. this isoltes key switch and wiring. Spark? no? then work inside cowling starting with stator output tests. you will need a DVA or peak reading meter or if you have a FLUKE DVOM or equiv. you can purchase a DVA adapter from SNAP-ON, part# eedmdva , only 29.99 online or on truck. worth its weight in gold and also work out of a factory service manual. hope this helps you.

[sixmassive]

before you do all of that. . . . .

check the kill switch. happened to me.

[lokinutz]

before you do all of that. . . . .

check the kill switch. happened to me.

Yep, your right. Lanyard if you have one first, all conections, and could check neutral safety switch at shifter control (although usually it wont crank at all if that's whats out of adjustment). Then cranking voltage, then stator/powerpack tests.

[flabum1017]

I agree with pulling the red plug apart and checking for spark, this isolates the motor from the boat. Of course, cranking speed is important too, so make sure the battery is fresh and it spins good. pulling the spark plugs help the cranking speed.