Electrical problem?

I am very green at motor repair and having a problem, help appreciated! My motor won't start or even try to turn over (it's a 2008 4 stroke). I have tried multiple batteries that are fully charged. When I first hook up to a battery it will allow the tilt to work and when turning the key halfway it will beep and there will be a small spark at the negative terminal connection. Then the tilt will not work nor will it make the warning beep when turning the key to start ignition.

thanks in advance so I can get back on the water!

You have a bad connection at that terminal where you are seeing a spark. Check all the connections. They should be squeaky clean and tight. Also I have seen them corrode inside the terminal where you can't see it. A voltage drop test will verify this.

I was thinking two things. One, a short on one of the ignition wires (could be due to a rodent chewing or a friction rub). The other thought would be one of the fuses in the motor is bad or going bad. I do agree with Bill however to check your connection (not only the terminal on the battery but also the interior and exterior of the wire lug that connects to the battery. Emery cloth or a small bastard file will help clean them.