2003 Mercruiser 3.0 clicks, won't turn over

[tmclendon]

Hi guys, I have a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0/135hp in a SeaRay. After sitting up all winter (Yes is was well winterized!), went to start it and it just clicked (Once per key turn-to-start, not continuous clicking). Sounded like a weak battery, so I charged the battery overnight and checked the battery connections; next day, same thing. So I figgure it's a bad battery and it's off to WalMart for a new battery. Put that in and it's STILL doing the same thing. So I sat there and turned the key to start about 20 times and finally it cranks over! After a few more tries I get it started, and it runs fine. The next time I started it, same thing, a click every time I turn the key to 'start', but after only a few tries it cranks right up.<br /><br />After running for an hour or 2, the problem seems to be gone. <br /><br />Ya'll got any ideas? Mercs are new to me, I ran an OMC Stringer 800 for 20 years prior to getting this rig in 2004. Sounds a lot like a starter solenoid, but I don't even know where they are on the Merc!<br /><br />Thanks!!<br />Tom

 

[bruceb58]

Re: 2003 Mercruiser 3.0 clicks, won't turn over

Could be many things from corroded/loose cable connections(positive and ground)bad solenoid or bad starter. Has your starter ever been submerged?

 

[Don S]

Re: 2003 Mercruiser 3.0 clicks, won't turn over

The link below will help you troubleshoot the system very quickly.<br /><br /> http://forums.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=24;t=012808

 

[tmclendon]

Re: 2003 Mercruiser 3.0 clicks, won't turn over

Thank you Don, excellent info! I'll take that with me in case I have to troubleshoot it again!<br />Tom

 

[8x56mn]

Re: 2003 Mercruiser 3.0 clicks, won't turn over

Don, I had this very same problem this weekend. I remembered from my 1956 Chevy days of jumping across the solenoid studs to make her fire up, had to do the same thing this weekend. I never new quite how to test out though, and now I do, thanks. I'll just have to talk some bystander into holding the key while I run the tester next weekend as I'm sure this will happen again. Who knows maybe I'll get lucky (with help) that is.

 

[Mile-High Mariner]

Re: 2003 Mercruiser 3.0 clicks, won't turn over

Snake:<br /><br />I have the same trouble with my '92 Mercruiser 3.0, and it is always the negative battery connection. Douse the dang thing with a good dielectric or battery terminal corrosion inhibitor and check your other electrical stuff.<br /><br />Don S's link will help you greatly, but just for grins; the solenoid ride atop the starter motor on my starter. The next time you seem to have your problem, tap the solenoid and/or starter lightly with a small hammer and try again. If you have to do this alot, I'd get it tested. You may or may not need a rebuilt or new starter.