www.iFourWinns.com

Gents,

I had this problem a couple of years ago when the weather started cooling down ... now it's back.

History:

Turn the key ... nothing. Engine won't crank. Replaced the switch and relay. Still had the issue from time to time. The mechanic I took it to figured out that it was the pins / connectors where the relay snapped in. So, he took a pair of pliers and pinched the female connectors so they would seat.

No issue for 2 years.

Last week ... issue started back. I pulled the hatch and jiggled the relay and it fired right up. Happened again yesterday.

I called the mechanic ... he's now in sales. He remembers the issue and what he did to fix it but can't remember if simply replacing the relay box is the fix or if the entire wiring harness must be replaced. He mentioned that this is fairly common on this model.

BTW, the relay box is directly behind the spark arrester on top of the engine.

Question ... Is there simply a part I can replace that won't cost me untold amounts of cashola? My auto mechanic suggested buying a thin piece of brass sheet and "cramming" in between the connectors to force a good connection. While I'm sure that will work ... it isn't the solution I am hoping for.

Anyone with similar issues? If so, what did you do?

Craig C.

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2003 Vista 248, VP 5.0 GXi-C, DP

I am not sure on your problem is common. If is was me, I would clean the connector at both ends the best I could. I have not seen this connector, but if I could, I would form every other pin in the opposite direction just a little. This will cause added tention to all the pins for a better connection. Then use dielectric grease to seal it.

Some people know what it is & some don't. Just in case, here is a link. http://www.ehow.com/facts_6802259_diele ... source=ask

Good luck and let us know how you make out.

I vaguely remember another post about the female relay and/or circuit breaker connectors being lose. Don't remember if it was starter or trim. Not that this post is much help but might show up in a search.

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Terry
Current: 07 Crownline 255 CCR cuddy - 350 Mag MPI/B3 "Casi Cielo"

Previous:97 245 Sundowner 5.7GI/SX

Tow vehicle: 1986 GMC 2500 Camper Special 454/TH400

I had a period of unreliable starting several years ago. Turning the keyswitch caused the relay behind the engine breakers (on the starboard riser on my 5.7GSi) to click but the starter solenoid didn't pull in. Opening the relay housing and burnishing the contacts cured it. The Bosch watertight relay housings look impenetrable, but aren't; pry carefully and you'll get it out of its shell.

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Tom
Cape Coral

'99 Four Winns 258 Vista
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