2002 LX2000 Engine Problems. Won't run, Won't shut off

I have a 2002 Yamaha LX2000 Jet boat that I bought in June of 2015. I bought it from the original owner. He had all 6 carbs rebuilt in April of 2015, prior to selling it to me. The first 2 times I took it out, I had no problems at all, then the next time out, the boat started fine, but after leaving the dock and passing the No Wake zone, the port engine started sputtering, like it was going to die. I played with the throttle and it then ran fine. The next time out, same thing happened but this time, the engine died. After 45 minutes of trying to start it, it did start and ran fine the rest of the day. Next time out, same thing, but now the engine would not shut off with the key. I had to pull the choke to kill it.

I then replaced the fuel filters for both. The last time out for the season, I never got the engine to restart and run after leaving the dock. I know the spark plug wires are original. I've been told to replace the CDI unit, but it was told that these rarely go bad I've been told it’s a bad ground. At this point I don't even know where to look. I also replaced the ignition switch, hoping that was why it wouldn’t shut off, but that didn’t fix that issue either. The spark plugs have been replaced too.

After the last trip, the good engine wouldn’t go over 3000 rpms, so I pulled the exhaust off both engines, and the “good” engine had the holes plugged. The “bad” engine had very little debris in it. I replaced all the gaskets in them and cleaned them so well you could eat off of them. After I put them back on, the engines both started up right away, but because I was on the driveway, I only ran them for about a minute. The “bad” engine still would not shut off by the key.

The boat is now in storage, but I will have it inside soon, where I can work on it.

Always make sure you have good fuel and run additives to combat the ethanol fuel.

Not sure why the motor won't turn off, I would swap out the key switch first to determine if one is bad or put a volt meter on it to test.
All my issues were related to my plug wires, They were original wires / corroded - cracked etc. I had John? at Jet Ski solutions provide new cables and caps to resolve my issue. I have some detailed pictures on how to remove if needed. Everything running like a champ now and he was great to work with. I also cleaned my exhaust ports, etc that were totally blocked, adding strainer system this spring. With the correct ohm meter you can check the electronics and CDI to troubleshoot additional issues. Jet Ski solutions may also be able to troubleshoot and quote a repair estimate for your CDI or electronics. The original service manual has the specs and info you would need to check yourself. I have an electronic copy if you need one, just PM me.

http://www.jetskisolutions.com/

If you already swapped out the ignition key switch, it probably is not the switch but you may still want to replace with new. For the cases where I read about the engine not shutting off in a 2 stroke, some of the reasons came down to either the key switch or an air leak causing the engine to run lean. If it was running lean it would not only NOT shut off but you would probably see the RPM's increasing.

Dirty connections between the key switch, lanyard switch, and clean out hatch should also be checked and cleaned.


I'll search around some more to see if I can find other things to look at.

Thank guys! The ignition switch WAS replaced and still no luck. I replaced the bilge pump in august, because I thought I had a short maybe there but no luck, so when I pulled all of that apart, I checked those switches. At the same time, I pulled the plugs (what a pain in the butt) and rebuilt them. The lanyard will only kill the "good" engine. I did not notice it running lean, however that does give me something to check.

I think I'm going to order plug wires, just because they are 13 years old, however, I have to get into the boat to pull at the coils to send to Jet Ski solutions.
I just got the boat back New Years Eve. It was getting new upholstery, so it was inside nice and warm. The guy finished soon than I thought he would so "BIG BLUE" is sitting outside now, covered, until my brother gets moved into his new house and I can pull it into his big HEATED shop. Then I'm going to hopefully start going through this thing.

Funny Story... The upholstery guy said he had to hire a little person to crawl into the bow and unbolt the seats. .

I've gotten a little carried away with my interior and exterior updates and repairs. LOL!!! My bother reminded me that I'll have the best looking boat at the dock. (Non-running) if I don't get this issue fixed. My last resort will be dropping it off at the Yamaha dealer. :-(
I just ordered my new seat sliders this morning and some Hydro Turf is next.

Thank for all your help!

PS I have downloaded all the manuals and books I found on the internet, so I think I have everything I need. But Thanks for the offer.

What was your fix for the engine not shutting off?