Helm key engine problem

[Shameless]

Hello all my 1993 cat Diesel 3116 port engine engages but will not start engine from the helm. I have to start engine from Engine room key - no problem
Any suggestions to check - thanks ! Shameless

[billknny]

Originally Posted by Shameless

Hello all my 1993 cat Diesel 3116 port engine engages but will not start engine from the helm. I have to start engine from Engine room key - no problem
Any suggestions to check - thanks ! Shameless

When you say it "engages" I assume you mean that the starter motor cranks but the engine will not start.

If so, you likely have a failure either in the switch or the wires running up to it supplying the "run" power to the engine. On a gasoline engine we would properly call this the "ignition" circuit, but a diesel--formally speaking--doesn't have one.

While a diesel doesn't need power for "ignition", power is still needed on many diesel engines to operate the fuel solenoid, electric fuel pump, gauges, etc.

Break out your continuity tester.