starter not engaging

[zing]

I've got a 1996 115hp Johnson ocean pro - 60* looper.

I recently replaced the solenoid and have checked cleaned and rechecked all the connections. Sometimes it starts fine other times I'll have to work the key switch a few times and the starter just spins but does not engage with the flywheel. I think my batteries are OK @ 12.6V but maybe it the batts?

I wanted to clean bendix and was wondering if removing the starter or the timing cover is the way to go? On this engine with the optical ignition the bendix is not accessible without some digging. When cleaning the bendix, what am I looking for visible gunk on the shaft or the worm gear?

When reconnecting the solenoid connections I used dielectric between the terminals and posts, is that a problem?

 

[Robrote]

Re: starter not engaging

I have a 25hp eng that does the same thing. I think I'm going to replace the stater. The grear will engage if I play with the spring and shoot it with wd40. I think the bendix is bad but it doesn't appear it's a servicable part.

Let me know what you ended up doing to correct your problem

 

[colofiremedic]

Re: starter not engaging

I have had the same problem. Use dry graphite lube in the bendix. I do it about twice a season and have no problems. Dont spend the money on a new starter. Stay away from grease or WD 40 they collect dirt and make the problem worse. Make sure that the gear and shaft are CLEAN before putting the graphite lube on.

 

[zing]

Re: starter not engaging

Took the batteries to get tested, they're in great shape.
Replaced some cables and cleaned all connections, including the battery switch. Cleaned everyting at the engine including the ground - stripped that but a helicoil took care of that.

Same problem, so I start tearing into it. On many engines the bendix is sitting right there as is the flywheel. On this engine it's under the timing cover so it will require a full link and sync after re-assembling. The bendix was mess, very sticky with a bit of corrosion. It appears some saltwater has gotten in under the cover. I'd replaced the regulator rectifier a couple of weeks ago and now think the gasket wasn't tight, torqued to spec and used gasket sealer..

PB blaster compressed air a brush and an awl got it cleaned up and running moving good. I've got to wait until a timing wheel comes in on backorder before I can put it back together, anyone ever gotten one of those off without breaking it?

Now I'm thinking maybe I should pull the flywheel and make sure the stator didn't get a dose of salt.