1994 SNOB intermittently will not crank - 5.8HO Pro Boss

[farkash3rd]

We have a new-to-us 94 SNOB with the 5.8 Pro Boss w/ Pro-Tec ignition. Since we got the boat, it takes several cycles of the key to start up with first putting the boat in the water. You can hear the fuel pump prime when the key is switched on, blower on, etc but when you turn to the start position, it acts like the battery is dead - blower slows down, volt meter drops, etc. Once I cycle the key back off and then on again, it will crank fine and start right up. Initially it only took 4 or 5 cycles but last time it was up to 10+ before it finally turned over. Once it's been started for the first time that session it mostly cranks right up for the rest of the day.

I've replaced the key ignition unit based on reading some other posts, but no change. Neutral switch does not seem to be the culprit since jiggling that back and forth does not make a difference, same with taking the kill switch key in & out.

What's the next step in diagnosing? So far it has always started, just gives me some heartburn when unloading!

[Tom_H]

Almost sounds like a failing battery. If the battery checks out, you might want to check engine connections/grounds specifically at the starter and starter solenoid/relay. Beyond that, there's a chance your protec is failing (which the vast majority have by now). Take a look at the coil-pack module at the rear of the engine (where the spark plugs are going to). Look at area between the coil pack module and ECM below it and see if any of the epoxy potting compound is leaking out or if any of the coil packs are bulging which are both signs of a failing/failed protec, at which point you'll need to swap back over to a Distributor, and carburetor (if you have the throttle body injection).

[Jonny Quest]

As a former ProTec owner, I would consider evaluating the ProTec system. Most have already failed. Ticking time-bomb.

JQ

[farkash3rd]

As a former ProTec owner, I would consider evaluating the ProTec system. Most have already failed. Ticking time-bomb.

JQ

I definitely will - but from what I’ve read in other posts, this doesn’t seem like the ProTec would be preventing the engine from cranking would it?

[farkash3rd]

Almost sounds like a failing battery. If the battery checks out, you might want to check engine connections/grounds specifically at the starter and starter solenoid/relay. Beyond that, there's a chance your protec is failing (which the vast majority have by now). Take a look at the coil-pack module at the rear of the engine (where the spark plugs are going to). Look at area between the coil pack module and ECM below it and see if any of the epoxy potting compound is leaking out or if any of the coil packs are bulging which are both signs of a failing/failed protec, at which point you'll need to swap back over to a Distributor, and carburetor (if you have the throttle body injection).

Thanks - I’m out of town for a couple days but will see what all of that looks like. Battery was new last fall so should still be under warranty at least.

[Rednucleus]

How old is your starter? If battery is good that's what I would be changing 1st. One redneck test is to have someone hold key in start position and gently tap starter with a hammer - if it fires time for a new starter. Watch your hands for moving parts!!