? Bendix sp? spinning but won't raise to engage flywheel?

[CMBarnes]

It is not due to a dead or weak battery. The trim and tilt works well on the engine. Any ideas on what to check? Is the starter bad? The motor is a 1999 200 EFI which I can pull start (not a lot of fun) and then it runs strong until I cut it off. The enginge has started a few times lately from turning the key but there is a problem. THe bendix sp? turns fast but doesn't raise up to engage the flywheel. Any ideas would be appreciated!!!<br />Thanks, CMB

 

[Laddies]

Re: ? Bendix sp? spinning but won't raise to engage flywheel?

If you have lubed the bendix and it still won't engage the starter needs rebuilding

 

[jrampey]

Re: ? Bendix sp? spinning but won't raise to engage flywheel?

Try new brushes in the starter... I had the same problem - removed the spring above the gear to allow the gear to rise with less torque and it worked for a few weeks. Later took the starter apart to clean and found the brushes were worn out. Got new brushes and filed the commutator flat and shiney and now it spins the motor easily.