When I turn the key to start my boat the starter turns over and the boat starts but when the key springs back to the neutral position the engine quits. if I hook a positive side lead from the battery to the purple wire side of the solenoid then it starts and runs. I changed out the key switch but it still acts the same.

SOURCE: Searay 270 SLX wont turn over

were the batteries stored outside in winter ? if so check to see if there is any bulging on the sides... they may have froze which will require replacement .... either way do you have a method to check the voltage under load (starting) as that will show you the try condition of the batteries

SOURCE: I have a 150 hp outboard Mercury that is

Part of the problem was apparently of my own making. Number one, have to remember to check the safety switch located right below the throttle area. The toggle was kicked to the OFF position. May have hit it while wiping down the console in preperation for taking to the water. Once I found the problem, still had an issue with getting gas to the carbs. I pulled the quick connect of the primer system off where it connects to the engine and had to bleed multiple times to get air out and could see gas coming through the glass filter cleanly. Boat started on the second time over. Just like always did for me. Took to lake and runs fine now.

SOURCE: Boat motor won't turn off !

im not sure on your motor but if you have a choke tube with a cylinder in it the cylinder could have came out take the top off and hit your choke and see what moves

SOURCE: have 1975 Merc 115 h.p. motor. won't turn over with key

it may be your neutral safety switch. Try it again but this time turn the key with one hand and wiggle the throttle/shifter lever at the same time. My 25 johnson does this, but usually I can wiggle the shifter and she'll turn over. Hope this helps.

SOURCE: I am replacing an ignition switch in a boat. I

cant send wiring diagram -too big for this site-did try-and have one for mercury in line series