Starting problem

[mach142]

I have a 1991 Merc 115. It seems the Bendix spring will not engage. I lubbed the shaft and nothing. Just spins. I can turn it up by has so I know the shaft is free. Can just the bendix part of it be replaced or do I have to replace teh whole starter? If it can be is it a hard part to replace. I am not a prof. Mec but am very capable.

 

[dlcx1]

Re: Starting problem

The most common thing is low battery voltage. Dirty battery connections and also any corrosion on the main wires from the battery to the starter and or solenoid all can add up to reducing the current to the starter. the gear will not jump up if the current is not getting to the starter. Check all of these before anything else is done.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Starting problem

90% of starter problems are bad connections. remove and clean both ends of the battery cables, so that they are shiney, also the cable from the solenoid to starter. check for nicks in the cables. and make sure the connectors are on the wire good. the cable tend to corrode from the inside out, if nicked, corroded wires, and connections, heat up and cause resistance to the follow of electricity, thus the starter doesn't get enough. you can also take jumper cable pos battery post to large post on starter. with a good connection, the engine should spin. then if the starter is good clean everything and retest. then trouble shoot solenoid. starters can be rebuit at a starter/alternator shop, much cheaper than a new one.

also have the battery load tested at the auto parts store, free, i've had new batteries go bad

 

[JB]

Re: Starting problem

I agree with dlcx and TD. Your problem is probably that the starter is not getting enough current.

The most common cause is a very small amount (not measurable) of resistance in a connection of the high current cables. Remove and carefully clean both ends of all big cables, starting at the battery and going to the engine block (-), then the solenoid (+), and finally from the solenoid to the starter.

If that doesn't correct the problem go to the Engine FAQs Forum and do the tests for the battery, solenoid and starter listed in "Outboard won't start".

Good luck, and let us know what you find.

 

[James R]

Re: Starting problem

All of the sugestions are excellent. I have however noticed that Mercury starter solenoids have a penchant for contacts arcing and carbonizing making it difficult for enough current to get to the starter motor.