1986 Merc 2.4 liter 200hp

[jqs]

Hi fellow masochists( boaters),<br /><br />I just bought this 20' Mako CC with a '86 Mercury Black Max. This engine cold starts beautifully and runs fine at 3000-4000. I will run at 3000-4000 for 15 or 20 minutes and then power down for a little rest, lunch, beer etc... Well, when it comes time to power back up, I get absolutely zero response from the starter. Can only hear the choke click. After getting the boat back to the mooring and letting it sit overnight, she starts right up. Is this a sign of a failing starter? The engine overheating?(she's pissing fine). Even an overheated engine will crank, right? Frustrated but not beaten.

 

[BF]

Re: 1986 Merc 2.4 liter 200hp

does wiggling the gearshift help? Maybe the bit that keeps the starter from engaging when the engine is in gear isn't set up right. Mine does this, if the gearshift isn't perfectly centered in the N position.<br /><br />Brent

 

[CU2NITE]

Re: 1986 Merc 2.4 liter 200hp

Your starter could also be sticking, give the top where the shaft is a good shot of wd and let set for an evening this might loosen it up. It worked for me. Also the clicking sound you hear is probably the starter solenoid engaging. Good luck and let us know what you found out.<br />CU

 

[CU2NITE]

Re: 1986 Merc 2.4 liter 200hp

Also you should be running at 5300-5800 at full throttle.

 

[dingbat]

Re: 1986 Merc 2.4 liter 200hp

I've got he same motor. Check the starter relay. I've seen them burned to the point here they will not make contact when warm. Next time you have the problem ground the hot wire from the relay directly to the starter and see what happens.