water temperature sensor and starting problems
 

Motor- Mercury 90hp 4-stroke, 2002

I could not get my motor started yesterday because of a fuel feed
problem (the spark plugs were dry, and the engine ran for a few seconds
when I squirted in Quick start).

I recollected that a mechanic once told me to disconnect what I now
know is the water temperature sensor. The motor started instantly.
How come ? What does the no start have to do with the water
temperature sensor ? Should I leave it unconnected?

AZ

wrote in message
oups.com...
Motor- Mercury 90hp 4-stroke, 2002

I could not get my motor started yesterday because of a fuel feed
problem (the spark plugs were dry, and the engine ran for a few seconds
when I squirted in Quick start).

I recollected that a mechanic once told me to disconnect what I now
know is the water temperature sensor. The motor started instantly.
How come ? What does the no start have to do with the water
temperature sensor ? Should I leave it unconnected?

AZ


Probably shuts down the engine in an overheat condition. Maybe bad sender?
Check to see if the temp guage goes to hot when you turn it on, or take an
ohm meter and see if the sender is shorted. I would not run it
disconnected, as what happens if you get a true overheat? Spend 10 bucks or
less for a sender or 10,000 bucks for a new power head?