79 Merc 150 starter issue

[gonzz]

I have a 79 Merc 150. Sometimes when I try and start it all I get is a click. I have to open the cowling and spin the starter drive assy (part that engages flywheel with teeth) so it is closer to the flywheel. After I do this it turns over without issues. Is my starter going bad?

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: 79 Merc 150 starter issue

Probably 95% of all starter problems is electrical. Is the battery fully charged? Check all your connections. They must be very clean and tight. Check the lugs very closely for any signs of corrosion. They can corrode inside where you can't see it and cause the problem you are having. If you know how to do a voltage drop test you could check them that way. Another way would be to temporally substitute the cables with jumper cables. If all the cables have been confirmed good, try jumping the starter solenoid. Just because it clicks does NOT mean its good. If you are sure the solenoid is good have your battery load tested, regardless of age. This brings you to the starter itself. Remove it and have it tested by your local auto electric shop. They can rebuild it for you if needed and save you some money. Let us know how you make out.

 

[gonzz]

Re: 79 Merc 150 starter issue

The problem is the starter drive assy is not close enough to the flywheel. When I turm it closer to the flywheel I have no issues. Kinda weird..

 

[CVX20SPRINT]

Re: 79 Merc 150 starter issue

Probably 95% of all starter problems is electrical. Is the battery fully charged? Check all your connections. They must be very clean and tight. Check the lugs very closely for any signs of corrosion. They can corrode inside where you can't see it and cause the problem you are having. If you know how to do a voltage drop test you could check them that way. Another way would be to temporally substitute the cables with jumper cables. If all the cables have been confirmed good, try jumping the starter solenoid. Just because it clicks does NOT mean its good. If you are sure the solenoid is good have your battery load tested, regardless of age. This brings you to the starter itself. Remove it and have it tested by your local auto electric shop. They can rebuild it for you if needed and save you some money. Let us know how you make out.

X2 Good advice right there.

 

[j_martin]

Re: 79 Merc 150 starter issue

If the starter brushes are near the end of life, they could not make contact until you disturb the armature, then go from there.

Best bet would be to measure the voltage at the starter when it's just clicking. If it's 12 V, the starter is bad. If it's real low, the solenoid is bad.

Throwing a set of brushes in the starter isn't a real big job. You have to make a tool to install the brushes, but the instructions to make it are in the engine manual.