Electrical Problem

I've got an electrical issue with the boat, but it gave me 'good' indicators on the way out.

Here we go:
Launched Boat.
It was difficult to start (which is unusual for this boat).
After warmup ~ I thought it was running a little rough.
Rode around for about 5 minutes, and confirmed that it was running a bit rough.
Then I noticed that the alternator/charge gauge was reading 15 volts (16 is the max on the gauge). The gauge normally reads 12-13 volts.

So I turned around and hightailed it back to the put in.

It as we pulled up to the dock it died, and it is completely dead stick now. Turning the key does nothing. There are no gauge readings.

The bilge does work when you engage the float switch (but that is hotwired off the battery).

I think the alternator/ charge reading is a clear indicator, but I'm not sure what it is indicating..... Where should I begin troubleshooting?

Boat is a 1985 Ski Nautique ~~~

So when regulator fails, alternator must be replaced?

I replaced the Alternator. Electrical is still completely non operational (no blower.... no nav lights, engine will not start).

Had good current to the solenoid, but nothing after when I attempted to crank.

Replaced the solenoid. Still no current past the solenoid, no blower, no nav lights..... completely dead electrical system..

It's July 4th. What is going on with this boat? Anyone have any ideas?

What am I missing.

Look at the diagram and find the 20 amp breaker on the dash that supplies 12 volts to the key and everything else up there that has power or in your case doesn't have power.

Pete has already mentioned the 50 amp breaker on the back of the engine, you need to verify power coming out of that to get power to the dash breaker.

If power isn't getting thru those breakers, everything you describe will be the case.

Your key won't have power to energize the start solenoid and your instruments etc won't have power either

You probably really mean to say "good voltage to the solenoid" not "good current to the solenoid"

8122pbrainard wrote: Is the start relay (solenoid) engaging? When you turn the ignition key to the start position, are you getting power to the start relay coil? If not, get volt readings backwards to the NSS and then to the ignition switch. Are you getting power on the load side of the main breaker?

Man you guys are quick. There is no solenoid click or attempt to engage when you turn the key (but there is no power to the dash either so blower doesn't work, etc.   

I have power going into the 40amp breaker, but when I attempt to start, no power comes out the other side.

I'm thinking this may be the problem.

It was the breaker.

I had a choice between

West Marine's
https://www.westmarine.com/buy/motorguide--50-amp-manual-reset-circuit-breaker--10352748?recordNum=1
(that was only $14.99 and available for pickup at my local store,

or

waiting until Monday to order from Skidim:
http://www.skidim.com/CIRCUIT-BREAKER-40-AMP/productinfo/R153006A/

(which matches the original part but is significantly more expensive at $63.97).

I went the West Marine route, because I was still "troubleshooting' and also due to its cheaper price point, and immediate availability. It worked so I installed it.

Thanks for all your assistance.

Happy Fourth!

iPlan out

I think I will ~~~ I used the West product as more a troubleshooter ~ since Skidim was closed today.

listen to Pete and Keno-Ski Dim has factory original parts made for the boat your driving-you get what you pay for!!!! good luck