1996 Mercury 115 hp

[BayouRunner]

Ok, just bought a boat with said engine on it. A couple of questions from people who know, so I can make sure I'm getting the best experience possible.
Is a battery isolator worth the trouble and minor expense of installing?
My pisser takes a few seconds to start, after the engine is cranked over. Maybe 5-10 seconds. Is this normal, or should it start almost immediately?
Is checking output on solenoid, alternator same as checking on car engine? I don't think my batteries are being recharged while running. Batteries are due to be charged, but hold a charge, just don't charge while running.
Thnx in advance for the help/input.

 

[Jacket4life]

Re: 1996 Mercury 115 hp

Can't advise on the battery isolator, have never used one.

Your water indiucator sounds like it is performing correctly, it takes 5-15 seconds on both my mercs for water to begin coming out. However, impellers are cheap and relatively easy to install, so most ppl on here reccommend changing them annually.

I check my voltage at the battery with the engine idling. Should by between 16-18 volts. 12 or less and your are definitely not charging.

Best of luck.