Merc starter problem

voodoo

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jun 23, 2004
Messages
258
I have a Mercruiser I/O 6 cylinder 175HP.<br />Near the end of last season I started having trouble when I would turn the key to start it, nothing would happen. Just a barely audible clicking noise near engine. After a few tries of turning the key it usually kicks in and starts.<br />I am about to put boat back in water for this season and did a few test starts and I had the same problem with just the clicking noise a few times. Not always but once in awhile.<br /><br />My question is: Is this the starter itself or maybe the solenoid instead? Is the solenoid a separate part that can be replaced or will I have to replace the entire starter?<br />Also is this an easy job that I can do myself?......doesn't look like very much room to work in and if not, any idea of what the cost should be to have dealer repair?<br />Thanks for any help or suggestions
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,082
Re: Merc starter problem

It's probably as Simple as Removing the Wires,+ Cleaning the Wire Ends,.... Shiney Clean....<br />Both the Power Wires,+ the Ground Wires,... Both Ends of Both.......<br /><br />The Starter Solenoid IS apart of the Starter,+ They are replaced Together......<br /><br />Getting To the Issue is usually 3/4s the Battle, working on Boats,.... <br />And How Much it'll Cost will be determined by your Local Labor Rates,......<br />And,..How Much of the Boat has to be taken Apart to get TO it.........
 

bluemist

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 13, 2006
Messages
31
Re: Merc starter problem

Hi, <br />I dont know the set up of your exact engine but on mine 5.7 260 there is a relay / solenoid between the key and the starter it is infront of the water seperator on the fron of the engine. Check your manual to see if you have one. I had this same problem 4 years ago was gonna change the starter but since the part was only 12 bucks I decided to try this first, any how fixed the problem still have the same starter <br />AL
 

bamadave

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Mar 24, 2005
Messages
391
Re: Merc starter problem

You can try to jump the ignition switch to see if there is any change. But if you don't have a clue how to do this, DON'T. The ignition switch could be bad.
 

bamadave

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Mar 24, 2005
Messages
391
Re: Merc starter problem

You can try to jump the ignition switch to see if there is any change. But if you don't have a clue how to do this, DON'T. The ignition switch could be bad.
 
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