posted 06-22-2012 09:58 PM ET (US)        

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I have stock rigging with a 1988 Yamaha 704 remote control from the previous engine connected to the 2003 Yamaha 90-HP two-cycle outboard engine that has re-powered a 1989 Montauk. I understand that there is no alarm buzzer test at start up, but I have read (on other forums) there is a test if the safety lanyard is not connected and a start is attempted. I tried disconnecting the lanyard and starting, and no alarm went off.

The last time I heard the alarm was about four years ago when I got into shallow water and the engine started to overheat. Is there an alarm test process in the the circuitry of a 1988 Yamaha 704 control mated to a 2003 Yamaha 90 outboard? If there is, what might be wrong with my set up?

Thanks--any help is much appreciated.

Jim.

posted 06-23-2012 07:48 AM ET (US)            

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The owner's manual for a Yamaha outboard engine will typically contain an electrical diagram showing the basic wiring of the engine to the remote controls. You should be able to find this on-line, if you don't have a printed copy.

Check the wiring diagram to see how the aural alert sounder is wired. Often the aural alert sounder is configured so that an external connection to ground causes the sounder to give the aural alert. The first thing to test is the sounder itself. You should verify that it is working and making the normal warning sound. You may be able to do this by applying a ground. Check the wiring diagram to confirm.