1985 Merc starter solenoid stays engaged

[dwlanier]

Just bought a used boat with a Merc 150. We changed the spark plugs and while trying to get it to start, which it never did, the solenoid stays up and keeps spinning when the key is off. I had to hurry and disconnect the battery to get it to stop. Any ideas?

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: 1985 Merc starter solenoid stays engaged

I assume you mean the bendix keeps spinning trying to start the motor. If so you could have a bad switch or the starter solenoid is sticking closed.

 

[dwlanier]

Re: 1985 Merc starter solenoid stays engaged

Thank you for the reply. Not really sure what the bendix is. I am a newbie to boat motors. The item I am speaking of pops up and makes contact with the teeth of the top spindle when trying to start and then would drop back down after each attempt. Then it just locked in the up position and keeps spinning even when I turn the key off. I do not want to spend a lot of money right now so the more I can learn here the better. I did order a manual to learn more. I plan on changing out the ignition switch this weekend once I figure out how to get the throttle off.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Semper Fi

 

[dwlanier]

Re: 1985 Merc starter solenoid stays engaged

Just found the exact part online. It is the starter staying engaged. But that is the second problem. I was originally working on just getting the motor running

 

[saumon]

Re: 1985 Merc starter solenoid stays engaged

The item I am speaking of pops up and makes contact with the teeth of the top spindle

That's the starter bendix, wich engage onto the flywheel.

A manual will teach you the way to test both the ignition switch and the starter solenoid (wich is a small black relay located in the electrical box and wired directly to the starter motor).

 

[dwlanier]

Re: 1985 Merc starter solenoid stays engaged

Thanks for the info. I will keep you posted on progress. I bought the boat I hope as a small project for my son and I. Wish me luck