4.3 mercruiser starting problems?

[mattie_k]

Hey I'm a new member! I currently own a 1850SS Bayliner Capri with a 4.3 merc/alpha 1, it's a 1996 model. My problem is the starter (I think anyway). When I twist the key to fire it up 4 times out of 5 all I get is a click ( and sometimes a blown ignition fuse). I first thought it was the battery but the new one hasn't helped the problem any. Any ideas? Thanks!<br /><br />Oh yeah, I'm supposed to be going on a boat trip this weekend so a DIY type of fix would be a good thing!

 

[tystick]

Re: 4.3 mercruiser starting problems?

try checking the connections at the slave solonoid and starter.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 4.3 mercruiser starting problems?

Mattie, I have been having that issue for some time. I usually need to jump the solenoid at the start of the day to start the motor. After that, the key usually works fine. I recently cleaned all the battery cables (positive and ground) and ground wires, but it hasn't solved it, just made it a bit better. I am convinced it is a grounding problem, but haven't fixed it.

 

[hoot]

Re: 4.3 mercruiser starting problems?

could be bad starter solenoid or starter. need to check volts at starter or jump from battery with large wire (jumper cable is good) to starter post (not big post on solenoid). starter will spin if good. on gm solenoids, the front end will come off and the contact washer can be cleaned and the post can be rotated. http://www.marinemechanic.com/New-Folder2/startertest.html