Re: Outboard question but not antique

[Don]

Bill-
Yes, the solid/non vented flywheel indicates the standard 10/12 amp charging system. Like you say, it seems highly unlikely that someone snuck a 35 amp stator under there as well. The correct stator should be the black or green sealed/potted unit, you would be able to see the heavy alternator windings if you had the 35 amp stator under there.
OK, your packs have the single stop lead connections which you have unplugged, so that rules out pack to pack interference. Seems like your meters are probably OK, but again, meter polarities/settings changed in the late 80s, so it is very important to find the correct manual for the engine. I doubt the cranking voltage increased to 400 volts for the charge coils, but who knows.
Please be sure to do all the resistance and voltage tests for the charge coils, including the shorts to ground tests. And, just for grins, check for shorts between the alternator yellow leads and the charge coil brown leads with an ohm meter.
I agree, seems like a bad pack, and it is amazing how well these engines idle on three cylinders. I just don’t want your new pack to get ruined by funky charge coils.
Interesting problem for sure, I will keep my eye open for an affordable stator for you.