PCM 351 - Starter on with Key in "OFF"

[Boomvang]

I have a ’84 Ski Supreme with a 351cu PCM (pre electronic ignition). When I went to de-winterize it I found that as soon as I connected the battery, the starter started to crank. I thought the ignition switch was bad so I took it apart cleaned it up and put it back together.

It was only then that I found that I have the same problem even without the ignition switched wired in. All 3 wires disconnected from the ignition (key switch) and as soon as I connect the battery the started cranks.

Any suggestions?

[Rangerspeedboat]

Wires shorting together, or solenoid problems. I dont know alot about boat motors but they are similar to car engines so I do know some. Disconnect the wires from the solenoid, that should make it stop. Then you know what the problem is.

[Boomvang]

A bad solenoid would do this???

thanks,

Steve

[Rangerspeedboat]

A bad solenoid would do this yes. Once the soleniod makes contact it can burn together from the amperage.

Check the continuity on the soleniod, if its allowing power from one side to the other WITHOUT power going to it then its probably burned together.

If its burned together, you might try to hit it with a hammer to get it unstuck. The best thing to do it just replace the solenoid.

From 351 cu I'm assuming that its a Ford Engine. Some fords had the solenoids not mounted on the starter so it should be easy to fix if yours is like that.

[jabroni]

I have a Ford 302cid V8 motor which I believe is very similar to yours, pending yours is actually a ford. I had the same problem trying to turn-over my motor after the winter. Its a bad starter solenoid. A friend came over, saw the problem, and hit it with a hammer to get it un-stuck. I picked up a new one from the auto parts store(i know i should only buy marine parts) for $12.00. My solenoid was located at the rear of the engine on top, near the ignition, 2 bolts off, 3 wires and I was set. Worked perfectly.