merc 90 starter question

[phatmanmike]

hello. starter not working. <br /><br />1990 merc 3 cyl 90hp.<br /><br />i have full 12 volts with good ground to selenoid and to the starter when the switch is turned on, so i know starter is getting propper voltage, but it does nothing. when i hit it slightly with a wrench, it moves a little bit but not all the way to the flywheel.just up about a 3rd of an inch or so and the gets stuck there. does it need oil? how and where do i oil it?<br /><br />what should i check for before i lay down the $125 for a new starter?

 

[achris]

Re: merc 90 starter question

Mike,<br /><br />You didn't say if the starter motor is actually spinning. If it is, then it sounds more like the drive is gummed up. Take it apart and clean it, then add a couple drops of 2 stroke oil. Hope that helps.....<br /><br />Chris............

 

[phatmanmike]

Re: merc 90 starter question

sorry, i thought the " its does nothing " part told you it wasnt spinning. <br /><br />ok, its not spinning, it just stares at me, taunting me!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: merc 90 starter question

Using a jumper cable, connect one end to the positive post on the battery. Touch the other end directly to the large post on the starter. Be prepared for a spark as that connection is made. If the starter spins, its obviously not the problem. If it doesn't, have it rebuilt. Any respectable auto electric shot (starter/alternator rebuilder) can do this for you at much lower prices than a new starter.

 

[cwilt]

Re: merc 90 starter question

myoutboards,<br /><br />that little gear is called a bendix drive if i recall correct. if its bad, the starter will require either a rebuild or replacement. not sure though, but they might have a rebuild kit for them. upinsmoke, that tecnuque works well. their can only be three reasons if the starter does'nt work, bad brushes, windings on rotor or excessive corrosion on bendix drive<br /><br /><br />chris

 

[achris]

Re: merc 90 starter question

Sorry about the confusion Mike. Yes, I did see "does nothing", I also saw that the gear moved up when you hit it. That lead me to think it was spinning.<br /><br />The gear needs the motor to be spinning before it'll jump up into the flywheel. So, if it ain't spinning then it's got to be the electrical side of the thing. Time to take the starter off and either strip it down yourself or take it to any auto 'leccy.<br /><br />They're quite easy to strip and fix, just like a car starter.<br /><br />Good luck.<br /><br />Chris...........

 

[phatmanmike]

Re: merc 90 starter question

thanks peeps, specially you crazy ausies, staying up all night to answer my posts.