new to boating/starter problem

[cinbreto]

Just bought a 19 ft regal valenti with a 4.3L merccruiser alpha1,needed a little tlc.Tried starting and it clicked a couple of times and finally started.Took the family out go swimming,same thing happened,couple of clicks and started.Cleaned all the terminals and wires,same result,few clicks,started.Bought a new battery,selonoid.Same thing.Do i need a new starter and if so where are the bolts.All help is appreciated.Thanks

 

[Reel Poor]

Re: new to boating/starter problem

You may be getting water in the cylinders. Pull the spark plugs and check for signs of water. With the spark plugs out see if the engine will crank over without clicking.

 

[mkfs9]

Re: new to boating/starter problem

Did you replace the pre solenoid.This is not the one on the starter it is located top front of engine.Mine had same problem and this was a cheap easy fix.

 

[cinbreto]

Re: new to boating/starter problem

thats what i replaced was the pre-solenoid.Didnt get into anything with the starter yet.I bought a book for the engine.But even after replacing the pre-solenoid i still got the same result.couple of clicks and then it would start.Its getting worse now.Like to think its the starter,but not really sure.Then to top it off i cant see the bolts to get it off.I'm told there only two.I need all the help i can get.THANKS

 

[Dakota47]

Re: new to boating/starter problem

The 2 starter bolts are underneath it,, you can`t see them, you can feel them..

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: new to boating/starter problem

I would replace the starter or have it rebuilt.....
Pull it off & have it tested anyway.....
The bolts are vertical, with the heads at 6 o'clock......
You may need to pull the exhaust manifold (probably) to get a shot at them depending on how your engine sits in the boat.....
Some boats will require engine removal, let's hope that this is not the case for you......​

 

[Chris1956]

Re: new to boating/starter problem

Cinbreto, I chased that same problem on my '88 4.3LX for years. I replaced the slave solenoid, added ground wires etc. In the final analysis, I think it was the starter bendix. I used to buy rebuilt starters fpr that motor, and the bendix's were original and worn. I therefore recommend you buy a new Marine Starter. In the meantime, you may be able to live with it. I kept a jumper lead in the glovebox so I could jumper the slave solenoid. That would usually get it to work better.

 

[MikDee]

Re: new to boating/starter problem

Clicking sounds like both solenoids are working, it maybe just that the starter just needs new brushes, and some light sanding with emery cloth over the armature, they do wear out over time, good luck getting it out.

 

[hoot]

Re: new to boating/starter problem

the solenoid on top of the starter has a washer in it that contacts the back of the electrical post. the washer can become corroded and the backs of the post worn. power to the starter is lost. the solenoid can be removed and taken apart easily and checked. the post will rotate 180 degrees to a new surface. the starter can become corroded and rusty. the brushes can wear down on the armature. start with the solenoid. make a wiring diagram before you remove the wires or your next question will be "hey guys, where do these wires go??" and you might have a place that can rebuild starters in your area cheaper than buying a new one.