Electrical short in 1997 200 TLRV

[Bruce.Lyon]

Took the boat out a few weeks ago, ran well. Anchored for two hours, everything turned off, totally dead battery. Charged the battery, had it tested, "good battery". Put it back in the boat, hooked up various stuff (depth sounder, radio, etc.) to the negative post, and touched the positive lead to the positive terminal - no sparks, until I got to the engine. Negative ground connected, positive lead touched to positive terminal, BIG SPARKS! So there's a short circuit in the engine. What is the usual suspect - starter, charging system, power tilt/trim, or starter relay?

I have the Clymer's Shop Manual, but it doesn't address this problem. I have a volt-ohm meter, and am pretty handy mechanically.

Thanks, in advance!

[99yam40]

cable/wiring is my thoughts as nothing is energized until you call for it

[Bruce.Lyon]

Electrical short in 1997 200 TLRV

That makes a lot of sense. I'll check it out. Thanks!