Pinion Engadges flywheel but grinds

[sleggitt]

The Starter would not engage the flywheel. I lubed the bendix and now it well engage the fly wheel but it does not spinn it it just sits there and sounds like its grinding Battery is fully charged and conections have been checked.

1990 Force 90 hp

 

[john from md]

Re: Pinion Engadges flywheel but grinds

Are you saying that you get a grinding noise but the flywheel doesn't turn? If so, you may have a key that has sheared off under the pinion gear. I am not familiar with the starter on your motor but the pinion gears usually have a shear provision so you don't damage the starter if the flywheel doesn't turn. Pull it off and look for a sheared key.

Regards,

John

 

[sleggitt]

Re: Pinion Engadges flywheel but grinds

Yes that is the case it spins up and engages the fly wheel but wont spin the flywheel I have done the diagnostic for outboard motors wont start and did find that my soliniod needed to be replaced I have done that. the end of the shaft looks worn down but not broken. I have also taken the spark plugs out and the flywheel spins freely.

 

[john from md]

Re: Pinion Engadges flywheel but grinds

If the starter won't spin with the plugs in but will when the plugs are out, it means either of two things.

One, it is not getting the current to turn the starter with a load. Even though it will turn without a load, you can still have wiring, battery or solinoid problems. You can visually check the wires for corrosion or loose connections but you will need a high rate discharge tester or hydrometer to test the battery and an inductive ammeter to test the starter and solinoid.

Two, the starter windings or brushes can be burned and that is why you are not getting the torgue that you need.

Checking the wiring and changing the battery should be your first actions. If it still has a problem, I would go with a solinoid first as they are only about $22. A new starter will run you about $100.

Hope this helps,

John

 

[Matthew A.]

Re: Pinion Engadges flywheel but grinds

Lubrication of the Bendix usually ruins it. Force recommends never applying oil or grease to the Bendix.