www.iFourWinns.com

This is a story of a simple task that I may have turned into a major service. Anyway:

Trying to find the thermostat (see other threads).

Engine started and run just fine yesterday morning.
I thought I found thermostat and took off wire and cleaned it and tightened it (using a regular washer).
Turned key and heard one loud click -- nothing after that - not even the trim motor would work.
I have two batteries, so I switched to #2. Same result, only I got clicking that *quickly* slowed down to nothing.
Charged both batteries overnight.
Battery #1: Trim up and down solid power. Turned key - ZAP, one click and nothing. Trim wouldn't work after that.

Afraid to use battery two. I trimmed the stern up with battery #2 and plan to tow it to service Monday if I can't find what's doing it.

It HAS to be simple. I really didn't tinker with it that much, save for that one wire. (Pic on the "Where is the thermostat" thread)

DIY disaster for me.

Anybody have an idea?

Mark

_________________
Four Winns 1996 Sundowner 205
5.0fi/SX engine (Volvo Penta)

check your engine ground and the connections at the solenoid

_________________

1989 245 vista
5.7 cobra

SUCCESS!

Although I'll tell you it wasn't easy to find. Solenoid and ground were fine (thx crossram!). Luckily a neighbor heard me screaming at the engine (not really)(at least not really loudly) and came over (he's a mechanic, of all things). Within a minute he found the culprit: Wires to the starter had worked their way loose. So they were not making a solid connection. All other electrical ran fine (trim. lights, etc) but trying to engage the starter, just a loud click.

The angle to the post is almost impossible but I tightened it all back up. Turn the ignition key and BAM, away she went. Sounded so fine. Nothing better than that 5.0LFI purring.

Then, of all things, my thermostat started working again. I did update that scene on the other post.

Thanks to all who read this post and offer suggestions not just here but to others. You don't know how much we weekend tinkerers appreciate you sharing your wisdom. And that we have a board like this...well, that, too is appreciated.

mark

_________________
Four Winns 1996 Sundowner 205
5.0fi/SX engine (Volvo Penta)