1978 Evinrude starter problem

[lwhvanzundert]

After a two year rest the starter doesn't seem to have enough power to get the engine started. Attached to a 100A car battery (started fine with 55A two years earlier) the starter runs better, but still not nearly enough to get the engine started. Without the sparkplugs the starter does get the engine turning, but as soon as the plugs are put back the problem is the same. Any suggestions are welcome.

 

[JB]

Re: 1978 Evinrude starter problem

Howdy, Leon.<br /><br />Your problem is very likely to be a poor connection somewhere in the high current circuit.<br /><br />This can be confirmed by measuring the voltage at the starter motor when engaged. It should not be less than about 11.5 volts. If it is, then you are "dropping" too much of the battery voltage at some connection. You can then measure the voltage across each connection or you can simply disconnect, clean and reconnect each heavy guage wire connection, including battery connections.<br /><br />If you are getting 11.5 or more volts at the starter when engaged, then you may have a weak starter motor needing overhaul.<br /><br />Good luck.