175 Starter Problems

HS91_Mike

Seaman
Joined
Feb 11, 2009
Messages
62
I have a '97 Johnson 175 OR. The starter will turn over the engine with no problems when cold or first thing at the dock. It will also turn over after running for a while (30 mins or so) then turning the engine off for 5 mins or so. But it wont turn over completely after running for a while and then off for an hour or so, such as during bottom fishing on a spot. As soon as I turn the ignition, the starter will turn over the motor for 1-2 secs, the motor will almost fire up and then starter will just spin freely.

I dont understand the starter, bendix, fly wheel scenario entirely, but it sounds as if the starter engages, the motor pops but doesnt start within a second of turning the ignition switch, and the starter releases and freely spins as it would if you were a dummy who continued to hold the ignition switch well after the engine was cranked.

This has been going on for about 90 days. I replaced the batteries, checked the wiring harnesses and connections and all are clean and tight. Previously, getting the engine started cold was the toughest part, now it is trying to crank it after it is warm. Can be frustrating when you are 20-30 miles offshore. :facepalm:
 

Daviet

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Sep 24, 2008
Messages
8,958
Re: 175 Starter Problems

I don't have any experience with the larger engines, but it sounds like the clutch in the starter drive is going out.
I am sure some one with more experience with your engine will come along and help you out.
 

Will Bark

Lieutenant
Joined
Aug 1, 2010
Messages
1,470
Re: 175 Starter Problems

Try giving the starter shaft a little squirt of 3m oil and see what happens. Good luck
 
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