Electrical short circuit

[Bypass]

I couldn't figure out why my RPM gauge stopped working and now I know. The two wires that go to the engine short circuited. Talk about a ugly melted mess. I got them separated and taped up and now it works good as new. Live and learn. Next time I know what to look for in case something like this happens again.

 

[AirForce]

There's a reason it short circuited, be sure to check stator, rectifier, switchbox etc for any signs of distress or you'll be frying more than just wires. I myself wouldn't use any wire that has shorted once, its just asking for more trouble later.

 

[THOMMO59]

I'm not sure of your model etc but many Tacho's are fed by the rectifier and if that fails, you have unregulated voltage that fries wires and starts very expensive BBQ's, I know, I had one a few years back and the first symptom was the the Tach started fluttering and going crazy, stopped the boat chacked the wires behind the Tach etc, no probs and thought I had a faulty Tacho, so much so I went and bought a new Tacho on line but before it arrived, the next day I'm out and boat is going fine then it starts missing, I pull up and Wham, bush fire!!!!

 

[Bypass]

Yikes!!!!! I better take this thing to a mechanic then. Thanks for the heads up guys. Fires on the water are no good.

 

[Bypass]

After doing some research I discovered that there was a recall on this engine for this exact problem.

 

[rbstern]

After doing some research I discovered that there was a recall on this engine for this exact problem.

Which motor?

 

[Bypass]

Mercury 60 hp bigfoot 2003 model.

 

[THOMMO59]

I'll put money on the rectifier / regulator

 

[Bypass]

I think you would win that bet.