Cold starting problem

[Cobalt32]

7.4L mercruiser with both batteries fully charged my starter won't engage with multiple tries then finally catches. Does this only on first start up when cold, no problem when engine is hot. Cranks first try every time. Possibly bad solenoid or bendix?

 

[alldodge]

7.4L mercruiser with both batteries fully charged my starter won't engage with multiple tries then finally catches. Does this only on first start up when cold, no problem when engine is hot. Cranks first try every time. Possibly bad solenoid or bendix?

If I understand correctly, the starter is spinning but does not engage, if correct then this is the starter and probably the bendix

 

[Cobalt32]

Sorry may not have explained it clearly. I get one click at what a believe to be the starter each time I turn the key. This might happen from one to five or six times before the starter engages and turns the engine over. Only when cold first start. I thought it might be the ignition switch at first but the click at the starter makes me think not.

 

[alldodge]

OK, I would go to the slave relay first. There are 2 large post on top and 2 small on the bottom. Jump across the 2 top ones and the starter should engage. When key is turned to start this is energized and then power goes to starter solenoid 89-96054T

 

[Cobalt32]

Thanks I will try that. The battery lead appears to go directly to the starter (unless this relay is hidden behind the engine). Is it possible the relay is incorporated with the starter?

 

[alldodge]

No, the key (letter A) turns on the slave relay (letter C), and the slave relay turns on the starter solenoid (letter E)

 

[Cobalt32]

Got it. Thanks makes perfect sense now. Big help appreciated!!