Mercury outboard ignition switches are essential parts of the boat’s electrical components. They provide power to the starter and help start the engine. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram for a Mercury outboard ignition switch.
What is an Outboard Ignition Switch?
An outboard ignition switch is a component that provides power to the engine’s starter motor. It ignites the fuel in the engine’s cylinders thereby starting the engine. The ignition switch also powers the engine’s accessories, such as lights, GPS, and depth finders.
The ignition switch is typically located on the boat’s dashboard, and it is used to turn on and off the engine. The switch has four positions: off, accessory, on, and start.
Wiring Diagram for Mercury Outboard Ignition Switch
The wiring diagram for a Mercury outboard ignition switch is relatively simple. It consists of three wires: red, black, and yellow. The red wire connects to the battery’s positive terminal. The black wire connects to the negative terminal of the battery, and the yellow wire connects to the starter solenoid.
The ignition switch also has four terminals: B, S, M, and C. The B terminal connects to the battery, the S terminal connects to the starter solenoid, the M terminal connects to the boat’s electrical system, and the C terminal is the accessory circuit.
Here’s a detailed wiring diagram:
| Wire Color | Terminal | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Red | B | Battery Positive |
| Black | S | Starter Solenoid |
| Yellow | M | Boat’s Electrical System |
| Red | C | Accessory Circuit |
FAQ
What does the B terminal on the ignition switch do?
The B terminal on the ignition switch connects to the battery’s positive terminal. It provides power to the switch and the rest of the boat’s electrical system.
What does the S terminal on the ignition switch do?
The S terminal on the ignition switch connects to the starter solenoid. It provides power to the starter motor and starts the engine.
What does the M terminal on the ignition switch do?
The M terminal on the ignition switch connects to the boat’s electrical system. It provides power to the boat’s instruments, lights, and other accessories.
What does the C terminal on the ignition switch do?
The C terminal on the ignition switch is the accessory circuit. It provides power to the boat’s accessory circuit, which includes lights, GPS, depth finders, and other accessories.
How do I install an ignition switch on my Mercury outboard?
To install an ignition switch on your Mercury outboard, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the battery.
- Remove the old ignition switch from the boat’s dashboard.
- Connect the three wires to the corresponding terminals on the new ignition switch.
- Mount the ignition switch on the boat’s dashboard.
- Reconnect the battery.
- Test the ignition switch to ensure it is working correctly.
Conclusion
A Mercury outboard ignition switch is an essential component of the boat’s electrical system. It provides power to the starter and helps start the engine. The wiring diagram for a Mercury outboard ignition switch is relatively simple, and it consists of three wires and four terminals. Make sure to follow the wiring diagram correctly when installing a new ignition switch on your Mercury outboard.
