3.0 Mercruiser clicking..

[tmclendon]

Hi all, I have a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0 with pretty low hours; Starting last year, when I turn the key to 'start' all I get is a single click. If I keep trying, it will eventually start up, but sometimes it takes 40 or 50 tries. The battery has been replaced and charged up, and I've checked all the connections.

Sounds like a solenoid to me. I'm only familiar with the solenoids that mount away from the starter, I think this engine has it integral to the starter; So my question is, can it be changed by itself, or do I have to change the entire starter? And how hard is it to change out the starter? I'm a pretty decent shadetree mechanic, having kept a 3.8L V6 OMC Stringer running great for 22 years in my previous ride.

Thanks for the help!

 

[imported_raymond2688]

Re: 3.0 Mercruiser clicking..

have you check all the ground conections on the block(not just your battery) mine did the same it was the main ground just a thought

 

[sea wolf]

Re: 3.0 Mercruiser clicking..

If it's not the connections consider having the starter rebuilt. It's a lot cheaper than a new one. I had mine done a few years ago & it's still going strong.

 

[Wotknot]

Re: 3.0 Mercruiser clicking..

Most likely it's the slave solenoid........read this......... http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=167035

 

[Bondo]

Re: 3.0 Mercruiser clicking..

and I've checked all the connections.

Ayuh,..... Define "Checked"......

If you didn't Remove, Sand, Clean,+ then Reinstall,.. ALL of the wiring connections,.......
You Didn't Check the connections......

 

[tmclendon]

Re: 3.0 Mercruiser clicking..

Thanks all, that's a big help. Will work on it this weekend and hope it will be a loose connection!

Happy 4th to all!