1998 Johnson 175 ficht no start erratic spark.

[Bryce B]

Model # J175FTLECS serial # 4518816 One month ago the engine started and stalled after about 30 seconds of run time, will not restart. Checked the basics, such as fuses, battery voltage,(during cranking is 10.8v ). With spark tester adjusted to 1/4" gap and opposite plug wire grounded, I notice erratic spark while cranking steadily and eventually will have no spark over a 15 second cranking time. I also notice that injector pulse is consistant while spark is lost, and computer scan recognizes 265 rpm while cranking. There are no codes stored. As I check for spark in the static tests mode, zero spark at all cylinders. History: The stop circuit has never functioned since I've owned the boat, (4 years) the engine ran with or without the teather in place. Last season, It had a no spark condition, took it to the local dealer and a used ignition module was installed. Help would be greatly appreciated and Thanx in advance.

[SEAHORSE]

the service manual shows how to test the ECU for ignition signal output to the ignition module. One or both may be the problem assuming the wiring and the rest of the 24 volt system is OK.

You may need to see a trained tech if you do not have the equipment and manual.

[Bryce B]

Up date- I've just diagnosed and my conclusion is a bad EMM. BOO! This was my first experience with diagnostics on a ficht, so Im a bit up tight about the cash that this will lead to. Thanks for the reply seahorse, do you have or anyone have connections on parts for this thing?

[SEAHORSE]

that's an ECU as the motor still has a separate rectifier/regulator and ignition module. The EMM came out in 2000 with everything in one box.

Call DFI Technologies for your ECU repair.

[JR19]

Any part you need can be found on the Evinrude web site. I think the link is shopevinrude.com. If you have trouble with an ECU,EMM, power distribution panel or injectors there is a company called DFI technologies that will repair/refurbuish them.

I *think* a new computer for my boat is in the $1700 range and DFI will repair/refurbish it for around $600 *If* my memory is correct.