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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Apr 2021
    Posts
    19

    Default Starting Issue - 1989 Supra Mariah

    So I have a new to me boat with 360 hrs on the original motor. The seller advised me of a weird startup issue with it, but played it off as normal.

    Here's the issue (if it really is one): Both the main cluster switch AND the Acc switch on the dash must be activated to start. Additionally, the spark plugs don't fire unless the key is no longer turned all the way to the start position. In other words, I have to turn the key and the starter turns the motor. I then have to kinda time when I let off the key for the ignition to actually fire. I suspect some wonky wiring repair has occurred sometime in the past.

    I should point out that the motor is definitely difficult to start when cold despite me being very familiar with carburetor engines.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Aug 2010
    Location
    Oyama, B C , Canada
    Posts
    650

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by asmithcveg View Post
    So I have a new to me boat with 360 hrs on the original motor. The seller advised me of a weird startup issue with it, but played it off as normal.

    Here's the issue (if it really is one): Both the main cluster switch AND the Acc switch on the dash must be activated to start. Additionally, the spark plugs don't fire unless the key is no longer turned all the way to the start position. In other words, I have to turn the key and the starter turns the motor. I then have to kinda time when I let off the key for the ignition to actually fire. I suspect some wonky wiring repair has occurred sometime in the past.

    I should point out that the motor is definitely difficult to start when cold despite me being very familiar with carburetor engines.
    Doesnt sound at all normal.
    What size and make of motor?
    351 ford pcm ?

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Jul 2007
    Location
    Flowery Branch Georgia
    Posts
    2,742

    Default

    Does it have points or electronic ignition? Where are you located?

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Apr 2021
    Posts
    19

    Default

    351 Ford pcm with points. Located in northwest arkansas

    Edit: I should point out that someone has messed with the main wiring harness as evidenced by it being wrapped in electrical tape. Thankfully, I have the engine service manual that contains the wiring diagram. My next order of business is to take that tape off and see if all the wires are where they are supposed to be. I also have a decent amount of corrosion on the electrical contacts at the starter relay, fuse, etc. that will be cleaned away..

    Another question (not related to the starter): how much should the prop spin while the boat is running on the trailer in neutral?
    Last edited by asmithcveg; 04-21-2021 at 09:04 AM. Reason: Additional info/questions

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Aug 2010
    Location
    Oyama, B C , Canada
    Posts
    650

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by asmithcveg View Post
    351 Ford pcm with points. Located in northwest arkansas

    Edit: I should point out that someone has messed with the main wiring harness as evidenced by it being wrapped in electrical tape. Thankfully, I have the engine service manual that contains the wiring diagram. My next order of business is to take that tape off and see if all the wires are where they are supposed to be. I also have a decent amount of corrosion on the electrical contacts at the starter relay, fuse, etc. that will be cleaned away..

    Another question (not related to the starter): how much should the prop spin while the boat is running on the trailer in neutral?
    Go to this thread

    https://forum.supraboats.com/showthr...ce-amp-for-all

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Apr 2021
    Posts
    19

    Default

    Thanks for the link - some good information in there for sure.

    In regards to the transmission, the PCM manual states that a blockage in the control valve may be the culprit for my excessive prop rotation in neutral. My question is, can I remove the control valve with the transmission still in the boat?

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Jul 2007
    Location
    Flowery Branch Georgia
    Posts
    2,742

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by asmithcveg View Post
    Thanks for the link - some good information in there for sure.

    In regards to the transmission, the PCM manual states that a blockage in the control valve may be the culprit for my excessive prop rotation in neutral. My question is, can I remove the control valve with the transmission still in the boat?
    That is called a dirty neutral. It is most likely because the clutches inside the trans are warped from excessive heat . There are a lot of transmissions with that problem . It will work for a long time as is but it will inch forward in neutral . The fix is a trans rebuild.

  8. #8
    Join Date
    Apr 2021
    Posts
    19

    Default

    It also does it in neutral reverse as well. The common component according to the Trans manual is the control valve unless both the forward and reverse clutch plates are warped. Any thoughts?

  9. #9
    Join Date
    Apr 2021
    Posts
    19

    Default

    So I was wrong in my earlier response. It actually has the petronix electronic ignition installed.

  10. #10
    Join Date
    Jul 2007
    Location
    Flowery Branch Georgia
    Posts
    2,742

    Default

    I have a PCM # RP173072 electronic ignition conversion kit new in the box . I don't know if its made by petronix. I use HEI distributors in my 351 engines single wire hook up 60,000 volts to the spark plugs.

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