Oops, connected my battery backwards!

[Glenn]

I accidentally reversed the battery connections when I reinstalled the battery. What potential damage could I have caused?

Trim motor and bilge will operate backwards.

Engine may not start. On some models like the Kohler and certain Vanguard engines, even after you have corrected the problem, you may have burned out the ignition switch diodes located near the coils. A service center will be able to install new diodes. Check this by turning over the engine and observing the grounded spark plugs for spark.

You can damage the voltage regulator. Check the voltage regulator by connecting a voltage meter anywhere in the system, run the engine up to 2200 rpm or higher and the circuit should be 14 volts or more. If 12 or less, your system is not charging.

Check your rev limiter by slowly increasing the engine speed until it is near the rev limiter cut off point. If the engine speed exceeds the 4300, 4600 or 5100 rpm rev limiter maximum, the rev limiter has burned out. Replace the rev limiter immediately.

Other: If your battery has low power anytime, stock motors with carburetor fuel shut off valves may not start. The low voltage will not allow the fuel shut off valve in the carburetor to operate. If your engine does not start with a good battery, pour a little fuel in the carburetor. If the engine starts the fuel shut off valve may be damaged.