Mercruiser Ignition Coil Problems: 6 Problems & Solution

Mercruiser Ignition Coil Problems 1

The ignition coil is an important part of the engine. But you also face many problems related to an ignition coil. Like all ignition coils, you can also face many problems with mercruiser ignition coils.

But you can solve the problems if you take steps considering their symptoms of them.

So what are the mercruiser ignition coil problems?

Well, there are many problems that you can face while using a mercruiser ignition coil.

Like, being hard to start the boat, sounds from the engine, misfiring and backfiring of the engine, leaking of fuel, engine not getting enough fuel, no sparks, etc. All these problems have solutions to solve them.

That’s just a quick overview of the article. To know more about them with solutions, go through our article.

Let’s begin!

What Are the Symptoms of a Weak Ignition Coil?

The symptoms of a weak ignition coil can include:

  • Difficulty starting the engine
  • Reduced fuel efficiency
  • Poor performance
  • Poor emissions
  • The engine may not run very well or at all

A weak ignition coil can be caused by a number of factors, including worn or damaged wires, dirty or clogged spark plugs, and a misfire condition.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to have your vehicle checked by a mechanic.

Troubleshooting of Mercruiser Ignition Coil Problems

You can face many problems while using a mercruiser ignition coil. You should know about the symptoms and the solutions to solve the problems. Solving problems is very important.

Otherwise, it can damage you more in a big way.

Here we have mentioned all the Mercruiser ignition coil problems and solutions with explanations for you in the article. Go through them to know.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s start!

Hard Starting

One of the most common problems of mercruiser ignition coils is that it will be difficult or hard for you to start the boat. The engine will not start in a smooth way and sometimes you can’t even start it too.

If you are facing this kind of problem, then there may be some problems with your mercruiser ignition coil.

The ignition coil is very important for every vehicle. It helps to start the engine.

It transforms and increases the amount of voltage of the battery.

After this, spark plugs produce the spark. With the help of this spark, the engine can start.

That’s why, if there is any problem in the ignition coil, there will be less or no spark. As a result, it will be hard to start the engine.

It’s one of the 3.0 mercruiser ignition coil problems. If you’re facing this, then you should be careful.

Mercruiser-Ignition-Coil-Hard-Starting 1

Solution

If you are finding this symptom in your vehicle, then you should check which coil the problem is.

Because there can be many coils there. Then call a mechanic to repair this.

No spark problems

If you are facing this problem, then there is a high possibility that this problem is because of a bad ignition coil.

Because an ignition coil helps to create a spark in the spark plugs. This is one of Mercruiser 7.4 ignition coil problems.

Now we will tell you the reason for the no spark problem. We have already mentioned to you that the ignition coil helps to create a spark in the spark plugs.

If there is any kind of problem in the ignition coil, then the spark plugs can’t also generate sparks to operate the engine. That’s why you will face this kind of problem.

So you should check your ignition coil whenever you face this kind of problem.

Solution

Call a mechanic and check your ignition coil. If he can solve the problem, then let him try to do that. If he can’t, then change that part of the ignition coil which has got damaged.

Misfiring and Backfiring of Engine

Misfiring and backfiring of the engine is another weak ignition coil symptom. If there is any problem with the ignition coil, then you can face this kind of problem.

Whenever you try to start the engine the engine will backfire and misfire your vehicle. Misfiring means providing continuous spark from the spark plugs. It can only happen when there is any problem with the ignition coil.

Backfiring is also harmful to the engine. It can create further damage to the other parts of the vehicle. It happens when the engine uses unused fuel.

Solution

There are many coils in the ignition coil. See if there is any problem in the windings of any of those ignition coils.If so then you can face this kind of problem.

That’s why you should take help from a mechanic to check and solve this issue. You can also check by yourself if the windings are okay or not.

This problem can also happen to you if there is any problem with the fuel pump too. So don’t confuse yourself and check carefully where the problem is.

Stalling of Engine

Stalling of the engine is another symptom of the problems of the mercruiser ignition coil. You can face this kind of problem. Whenever there is any problem in any of the windings of the ignition coil.

A boat can run only when the engine gets the sparks from the spark plugs. And the spark plugs get the sparks from the ignition coil. If there is any problem in the secondary or primary windings of the ignition coil.

Then the spark plugs can get energy although it doesn’t need it. That’s when the engine uses this power and stalls.

Mercruiser Ignition Coil Stalling of Engine

Solution

You should check the windings of the coils. You should check if they are burnt or not. For better results, take help from an expert.

Running out of Fuel Soon

Are you running out of your fuel before your expected time? Are you are thinking that the problem is in the fuel tank? Then I would suggest you check your ignition coil. Because this problem can happen, whenever there is any problem with the ignition coil.

The spark plugs can’t get enough energy from the ignition coil. And then it can’t help the engine to operate with sufficient power.

That’s why the engine will need more power to operate and it will use more fuel for that reason. As a result, your tank will run out of fuel very soon.

If there is any problem with the ignition coil, then you can face this kind of problem. Your boat fuel tank will not hold the fuel for a long time. Your engine will run out of fuel very soon.

As a result, you will have to fill the tank with fuel again.

Solution

First of all, check carefully if any of the mercruiser ignition coils have burnt out or not. If any of them have burnt out, then you will have to replace them with a new one.

You can do this by yourself, or you can take help from an expert.

Sounds from the Engine

If there is any problem with the mercruiser ignition coil, then you can get various kinds of sounds from the engine whenever you use or start it.

You can also get various kinds of sounds when you increase the speed. Both of them can happen to you too. They are among the overheating ignition coil symptoms.

When you start the engine, you can get coughing and spluttering sounds. And when you try to increase the speed, you can get jerked by the engine.

Solution

You should immediately call an expert or mechanic to your ignition coil if you face this kind of problem. Otherwise, it can damage the other parts of the boat.

That’s all. Now you know all the problems of mercruiser ignition coil and their solutions too. Try to take help from an expert otherwise, you can ruin it.

Vibration and overheating can damage mercruiser ignition coils. That’s why you should sometimes check their temperature to maintain it.

FAQs

Mercruiser Ignition Coil faqs

What is the amount of ohm of an ignition coil?

There is a perfect amount of ohm for an ignition coil. If an ignition coil has about 0.4 to 2 ohms, then it will be considered perfect for them. You should check their resistance sometimes.

Should we consider both terminals of the coils to measure battery voltage?

Yes, you should measure the voltage of the battery on both terminals of the coil (positive and negative). You should consider this only when you can notice the electric module not being closed.

What is the lifespan of an ignition coil?

There is not any fixed lifespan for any ignition coil. You should not also worry about changing them. You should only change them when they become bad or damaged.

Can an ignition coil be weak and still work?

A weak ignition coil can still work, but it will not provide a spark to the engine.

This is because the spark needs to be strong enough to jump the gap between the electrode and the air chamber in order for the engine to start. If the coil is too weak, it may not produce enough sparks to ignite the fuel.

How often should ignition coils be replaced?

The average time between a coil replacement is around 12,000 miles.

However, since coils are a consumable part of your vehicle’s ignition system, it is always best to consult with a mechanic or dealership to determine when the time has come.

Coils should be replaced every 12,000 miles or as necessary for your driving habits.

Conclusion

Hoping that you know now all the mercruiser ignition coil problems and their solutions. Try to solve those problems according to the symptoms.

It’s time to say goodbye to you. Hope you have enjoyed our article.

Have a Good Day!

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