Have a 2003 225 optimax, had dead cranking battery, plugged in to computer to find bad alternator and replaced both the alternator and battery. Get warning through smart gauges when I am running and trying to trim. Clean connections stainless hardware at the battery. Gauges only showing 11.4 - 11.7 volts at idle or running drops to less and beeps when trying to trim under throttle, no problem when idling other than the low voltage. Any help much appreciated.
1. LOAD TEST battery. Confirm 800 CCA or 1000 MCA MINIMUM CAPACITY. Ensure "engine battery cables" are stacked on battery lugs FIRST, then "largest to smallest". Wrench tight.
2. With a Test Meter (DC Voltage), check the output voltage at the large "red" wire on the alternator (engine at idle on flush attachment). Should be 12.6-14.5 VDC. If you are seeing 20-26 VDC, the Large red lead will need to be replaced. It has a fusable link (in the middle of it), that protects the alternator from "reverse polarity or severe overloads".
Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
Still consider myself a "Marine Apprentice" after 48 years (learn something new every day).
Mercury Parts, Mercury Outboards, Smartcraft & Accessories, Injector Service, TDR Reeds- BBC Sponsor
I am good on the first part; will test output voltage. Appreciate the guidance.
2004 Xpress X-19 2004 Mercury XR6 150
Best place to place ground lead to check??
Intake plenum or battery ground cable are great choices.
Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
Still consider myself a "Marine Apprentice" after 48 years (learn something new every day).
Mercury Parts, Mercury Outboards, Smartcraft & Accessories, Injector Service, TDR Reeds- BBC Sponsor
you might have jumped the gun on the alternator. Did you check the fusible link from the alternator?
JAZII
I am traveling but will check when I get home, I had the boat in the shop and was at the mercy of the mechanic, I just don't have the time, and was in a hurry to get it ready for a tournament. I have a few things to check but will follow up with resolution when I get it fixed. Thanks again
2004 Xpress X-19 2004 Mercury XR6 150
Had a cracked solenoid? It was coated in a heavy rubber material and when I went to change out the fusible link the post where it attaches on the solenoid was cracked away from the rest of the solenoid?
2004 Xpress X-19 2004 Mercury XR6 150
Hmmmn... You changed out the solenoid also, hopefully?
Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
Still consider myself a "Marine Apprentice" after 48 years (learn something new every day).
Mercury Parts, Mercury Outboards, Smartcraft & Accessories, Injector Service, TDR Reeds- BBC Sponsor
Yes I did, what I think what was happening was under power it was stressing the crack and giving me current problems, and when I would test at idle or be not moving it was fine? I scraped the corrosion guard covering away and the crack was barely visible, if I tried to flex it it would open up the crack.
2004 Xpress X-19 2004 Mercury XR6 150
Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
Still consider myself a "Marine Apprentice" after 48 years (learn something new every day).
Mercury Parts, Mercury Outboards, Smartcraft & Accessories, Injector Service, TDR Reeds- BBC Sponsor
Fished a 3 day tournament without issue. A trying learning experience for sure. Thanks to all for advice.
2004 Xpress X-19 2004 Mercury XR6 150
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