Thread: Solid Beep when 2001 Mercury 40 HP ELPTO Outboard is started or running

Originally Posted by DockShootinJack

It may not overheat with the pressure of the hose forcing water up and through the engine

I wasn't sure what you meant for a minute on the hose part. I think you mean if the mufflers (hose) is on, then with it being forced to have cool water flowing, it won't overheat???

And, yes, the alarm came on as soon as I turned the key on, and not always after I started it. Other times, it just came on. Sometimes it wouldn't come on till I tilt/trimmed the motor. Then, as I was leaving finally, it didn't come on at all.

But that was about 1-2 AM, and by then I was whooped and not sure.

You all mention wires. Is there a simple wiring schematic and description available anywhere on the Internet??

Just so you all know, I live in the Springfield area in Illinois BUT the boat is currently in storage at Lake Shelbyville which is nearly 75 miles one way and takes 90 or so minutes to get to....

UPDATE WITH QUESTION:

What is the purpose of the two cycle oil mix. Can the motor run for awhile without?

What happens if I put oil into gas tank but the motor is still mixing the oil BUT keeps setting off the beep??)

The oil mixed in the gas would insure that the motor is getting properly lubricated while running to troubleshoot. In tbe the event the automatic oiler is not working. Oil premixed in the gas keeps from getting engine damaged. If the oiler is working and your gas has
mix in it. It may smoke more than normal

I recommend you write down the engine serial number, order the correct water pump kit for that motor, and get one heading your way.
Prices vary, shop around to get the best deal. Replace the whole kit this time, in the future you may be able to get by with only changing the impeller. This may eliminate the issue, and have you up on plane out from under the dark cloud with the sun shining down on you with a full stringer of fish!
Good luck!

Here is a video I saw a while back where the constant beep started, and He found it to be the magnet in the oil tank. He gives a pretty good explanation about the oil tank magnet, and is worth a review, if you can get past His accent, I don't think He is from around Alabama. He also shows the two wires with bullet connectors that will cancel the alarm, and He reminds us of the pitfalls of going that route. The very thing He describes does happen from time to time.
Mercury 90hp ELPTO constant buzzing - YouTube

Edited, double post...

Had that happen to my 1999 90HP Merc .... worked fine one day, then when starting out the second day the constant alarm started just as I was starting to take off after idling out past the buoys. When I took it to my mechanic he explained that the oil tank magnet is just glued on & does come loose after awhile, which causes the "low oil" alarm. I had him put a new oil tank on & all's well, now. He even shook the old empty oil tank for me, so I could hear the magnet bouncing around inside.

Originally Posted by CrappiePappy

He even shook the old empty oil tank for me, so I could hear the magnet bouncing around inside.

you sure it wasn't a rock?? There are some shady mechanics that would try that. I'm a show me kind of guy.

FYI, from the manual:
"The oil tank is equipped with a low oil sensor and a magnetic float. When oil level in oil tank drops to approximately 1 quart (.95 liter) , the magnetized float will complete the circuit between the low oil sensor leads, causing the warning horn to sound. IMPORTANT: Warning horn is also connected to the powerhead temperature sensor. If the warning horn sounds, either the oil level in oil tank is low, or the powerhead is overheated. A warning horn test button is located next to oil tank fill cap. When ignition switch is in the "Run" position and warning horn test button is depressed, the horn should sound."
Incidentally, the manual also details which bullet connectors to take apart to check for voltage to the horn/switch. If all is well there, replacing the switch becomes your next move in this exciting chess game...