TOPIC: Merc 400 ignition switch wiring help.

Just acquired this Merc 400, no key for switch, trying to figure out how to wire to start up. Cut off old switch (B-E-A-D-F),Red, Yellow, White, Black, and another Black that comes from Pos. side of Batt.
Thanks in advance, Milton

Seems like there are some differences in the wiring of some of these motors, it's not a one size fits all.
I found out that on my 1959 Mark 58 the wiring is this:
Choke-blue
Ignition (start)-yellow
Magnito-white
Ground-red
Battery (+)-green

Black wire on my harness was broke but found out it was the output of the rectifier.
My advice would be to take your ohm meter or any continuity testor and just go through each wire from the key end to the motor and find out where they lead.
There is plenty of help on this site and someone will picture a schematic for you.
You can alway jump your battery directly to the starter and ground if you need to turn it over.
Cal

...MLG.: I have a wire diagram for TYPE I Merc POINTS motors.
Not sure of the order you wrote in 1st note , BUT here is the CHART...A= RED, goes to SOLENOID.... B= Yellow also up to Solenoid, may be the Neutral start interlock rocker switch IF EQUIPPED inside your box.?.......... D= Black , up to TOP of Starter.....
.E= Salmon goes to bottom of MAG where the Merc safety tilt switch attach......F= White ,can also be on the CHOKE Button,,Not used on internal harness, could be future Tach or a TEST point.? ....

which 400 is it 4cyl or 2 cyl makes a difference.

Thanks to Dave, Split, 63Sabre, all the info was great. It is a
2 cyl Merc 400. With the info I was able to fire her up after who knows how long. Oiled the cylinders, had to take mag out and clean the points, also the harness connection had to be cleaned up.
Thanks again, Milton
Weatherford,Tx.

That one in the picture is a four, not a twin. If that is yours, lucky you! But if you have a 1970/71 400 twin then I wish you luck!!!

Milton,

I notice your out in weatherford. I have my Merc 400E short shaft installed and running on my Glass Magic that was my grandfathers boat I restored.

Maybe we each could help each other out since Im in FTW and your in Weatherford.


Email?

Brian