Boat needs fixing

[Sartell Angler]

My 1988 Sylvan boat with a 50hp. Mariner motor isn't working. I tried buying a new battery, but the motor simply won't turn over. It is very odd because we've kept the boat in perfect condition, and it has worked great every year. After about a minute of trying to get it started, the negative connection on the battery gets very hot, and the starter doesn't work. However, I think it is something more than just a battery problem because the engine should be starting. Any ideas whatsoever would be a great help, otherwise I'll be taking it into the shop tomorrow.
Thanks,
Sartell Angler
P.S- I wish i was a mechanic right about now.

[Guest]

If any wires get hot that usually means a short in the wiring somewhere. A bad connection with the starter motor, maybe? Wires touching somewhere?
Start with the problem (ground wire) and work your way through the mess. That's what I would do. You may need a specialist...

[Valv]

The battery post and cable become hot after you try to crank engine due to high voltage drawn from battery from starter. That should be normal. I would check basic things, spark, safety switch not off (I did it too, sometimes it LOOKS ok but then I found out it was just a little off), etc.
Check if starter gear is not in a bind with flywheel.
Also pull spark plugs out then try to crank (there will be no compression), if motor doesn't turn it could be the starter.
If you have spark, try to spray a little of gas mix trough carburators with a spray bottle, if it tries to start then you know is carburation/pump related.

[This message has been edited by Valv (edited 07-16-2001).]

[Sartell Angler]

Thanks guys. This will give me something to start on. I just wish I had a better knowledge of this kind of stuff. I'll report back with what the problem was.
Sartell Angler

[IFallsRon]

Sartell Angler,
Your local expert is Bruce's Outboard on Mayhew Lake Road. Buy you might have a 6-week wait.

[Sartell Angler]

got a new battery, and also cleaned the spark plugs really good with steel wool and a wire brush. started right up. thanks for the help everyone. i'll probably get some new spark plugs also.