OMC Starting Issue

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trihull59

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jul 18, 2010
Messages
46
So I recently purchased a boat with a 1987 (I Think) OMC 3.0 4cyl Serial number T0969422. When I turn the key all I hear is a Click noise and then nothing happens. I replaced the solenoid because that is what the marine store recommended. Any other thoughts? Would it not start if the outdrive is not attached, the trim arms are tied to what the outdrive would be bolted to with rope but doubt that has anything to do with it.
Any advice!?
 
DBreskin

DBreskin

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Oct 20, 2009
Messages
799
Re: OMC Starting Issue

The motor will start without the outdrive attached. If there's no outdrive I assume there's no supply of cooling water to the engine. If you do start it you'll overheat it quickly and then you'll have bigger problems.

If you try to start it and hear clicking, check to see your battery is charged and you have good electrical connections from the battery to the engine. A corroded battery cable terminal can also produce the failure you've described.
 
T

trihull59

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jul 18, 2010
Messages
46
Re: OMC Starting Issue

I charged the battery but the connections to the battery were a little rusted but I sanded them and they seem to look better. On the battery gauge it says I am getting about 13 volts. Could it possibly be a bad starter or would it not produce the click?
 
Joshua Nichols

Joshua Nichols

Lieutenant
Joined
Jun 29, 2009
Messages
1,431
Re: OMC Starting Issue

That baby has 2 solenoids... Stop throwing parts at it...Make sure the other end of the cables are clean and tight too..

Get a test light and see if there is voltage at the starter side of the solenoid that is on the starter when you turn the key..
 
G

gdombroski

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Sep 18, 2007
Messages
134
Re: OMC Starting Issue

I had a similar prblem, just a click. After trying every electrical solution including a new starter someone said it might be hydro-locked. Checked the oil for water and there was some. Removed the plugs and turned over and of course spitting massive amounts of gunk all around. After three oil changes all was OK with mine.
 
T

trihull59

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jul 18, 2010
Messages
46
Re: OMC Starting Issue

Well I did a couple voltage checks and noticed with key turned over to start was not getting power to the 2nd post took the starter off to get it checked at a local parts store and wont spin at all. Took it apart and inside it is rusted like no other. Time for a new starter any ideas where to get one?
 
H

helpmelovemyboat

Cadet
Joined
Apr 14, 2011
Messages
19
Re: OMC Starting Issue

Just had same thing happen to me today..click and nothing...did all the easy stuff then pulled the starter. The click was the cog going out but then no spin. I figure rusted also it got under water last year.
 
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