90hp evinrude - frequently just makes a 'click' when key turned

[aquaboy]

Hi all. Hoping you can help me out here.<br />Have a '96 model 90hp Evinrude Ocean Pro. Recently it has started just making a faint 'click' from the motor when the key is turned. If I keep turning the key on & off, it eventually turns over, however often this is accompanied by a fairly weak cranking sound. However, on the occasions that the starter turns over straight away, the cranking is good & solid. Has a new battery, solid charge. My thoughts are that the solenoid in the starter is probably sticking (I'm assuming there is some sort of electro-magnet solenoid here like in a car starter). Any suggestions would be most appreciated.<br />Thanks again, Craig (Australia)

 

[Terry H]

Re: 90hp evinrude - frequently just makes a 'click' when key turned

aquaboy...check all your ground connections for corrosion...better yet unbolt, clean and replace all grounds. I would also have the solonoid checked. I assume your battery cables are in good condition since you just replaced battery, but be sure. just a Thought

 

[G. Patton]

Re: 90hp evinrude - frequently just makes a 'click' when key turned

I'm in full agreement with "Thought's" above explanation and suggestion. Your problem explanation is one that's usually caused by either a slightly loose connection or even a tight one that has had a corrosion build up. Removing, cleaning, and re-installing the connections usually corrects the problem. Use a wrench or pliers on the battery connections, don't trust to a hand tightened connection.

 

[petryshyn]

Re: 90hp evinrude - frequently just makes a 'click' when key turned

Hi aquaboy<br /><br />you have to determine if its a problem in the:<br />>wiring <br />>solenoid<br />>starter-motor <br /><br />They all can give exactly the same symptoms. <br />Take a voltmeter and measure the voltage from the ground of the starter housing to the starter power stud while attempting to crank. When only a click occurs, keep the key in the crank positon and observe the voltage. This reading must be taken with the key in the crank position and the motor refusing to crank. <br />If you have more than 9V at the starter, and its not cranking...the starter motor is bad (brushes, armature etc.) If you have very low or no voltage to the starter, then the problem is in the solenoid or wiring.<br />Do the first test and get back with results. We'll guide you through from there......<br />

 

[aquaboy]

Re: 90hp evinrude - frequently just makes a 'click' when key turned

Thanks all for your help. I can honestly say I was blown away with how quick you guys responded. Haven't been able to test the motor with the voltmeter yet, as it's decided it's gonna crank just fine for a while, hasn't it!! (Of course). However, did drag out the battery & the contacts had worked a bit loose, so have pulled them apart & given them a quick clean up, & reassembled good and tight. Am in agreement was probably the problem, & am upset with myself for now becoming one of those people whose post I would originally read & think - oh derrrrrrr.<br />Hahaha. Thanks again all. Hopefully the problem is solved. <br />Craig.

 

[DJ]

Re: 90hp evinrude - frequently just makes a 'click' when key turned

aquaboy,<br /><br />I had a 1989 90 that would do the same thing. TAKE APART the main engine ground on the engine block. It may look OK on the surface, but I think you'll be surprised what is under that bolt.

 

[aquaboy]

Re: 90hp evinrude - frequently just makes a 'click' when key turned

Thanks again djohns.<br />Will do