outboard dosen't start with pull cord

[Bassboy1645]

I have a 40hp tohatsu outboard. It has a pull cord and an elec start. Recently I somehow bent the key in the electric start and im waiting on a new one. In the mean time I tried to start it witout the key but with the pullcord. Is this one of those deals where I need the key in the slot to fire the motor over with a cord?? I htought I flooded it the first time yesterday but today I know I didnt flood it and It still wont go. If not the key issue Im guessing spark plugs and starting fluid?? Its pretty new and it purred like a kitten when I put her away last fall. thanks for the ideas..

[Sutty]

I'd put some starter fluid in it. If you pull and it fires up for a second than you know it is at least getting spark.

[Scott K]

Is the key in the on position?

[stmichael]

The key would have to be in the on position. Just like a car, if you have a stick you cannot push start the car without the key.

[Bassboy1645]

hmm makes sense....prob is im waiting on a new key so i dont have the option of putting the key in to try the pull cord. thanks for the help guys!

[Valv]

Yep, no key, no start. You have to unplug the main harness at motor, then it will start but you won't be able to shut it off.

[Bassboy1645]

Yeah I get it now...the manual said nothing about a key being needed for the pull cord to work I just assumed it was to use in case the key was not working right or the battery died.

[Ufatz]

Hey Bassboy....run that by us one more time about how your Toyhatsu purred like a kitten!Ha! Air cooled and it purred like a kitten. I say.....can you HEAR me! Ha

[Kyle Sandberg]

If your motor pulls like a 110 pound black lab trying to chase a cat, you probably need the key. I think its kinda like a lawn mower that if you don't depress the throttle, it becomes icredibaly difficult to pull.