starter problem continued

[Dirty Worm]

I have a 1996 88hp Johnson o/b.
Starter whines and will not engage wheel after being on water, it seems worse the longer I'm on the water, I can engage and start if I hold the starter gear up. I've taken it to a mechanic twice and it will not act up for them, they did check all wiring etc.. It comes and goes.
I have decide to change the starter and starter solenoid.
Are there any differnces in after market parts? I've found some generics for $90. (see link)
http://www.db-starter-alternator.com/Items/106-025?
The starter on the engine has a number on the back in white paint:585196 19HT2
Is that the part number?
The web sites I have checked say the number is: 585057
Some of the ones I've looked at online have different retainers on the top of the bendix gear, some have a nut. Does the retainer make a difference. The one on the engine does not have a nut.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: starter problem continued

Before you waste money check your cables first. All should be tight and clean and look very carefully at the lugs for signs of corrosion. Replace them if you see any signs as they can correde inside where you can't see it.

 

[BoatBuoy]

Re: starter problem continued

Agree with bhile, unless that motor has been used consistently with an undersized, undercharged battery, neither the starter motor nor the solenoid is your problem; certainly not both. If you just want to throw money at it, also get a new battery and ignition switch.

Since you say it's worse after being on the water, maybe your charge circuit is faulty and you're running the battery down.

 

[Dirty Worm]

Re: starter problem continued

Thanks for the advice. I checked the charging with a volt meter. With motor off batt. is 12.5 v, with engine revving it goes to 13.1volts. Does this mean the charging system is okay? I guess I should check the battery when it is acting up. Got a new battery 6 months ago and replaced the ignition switch a month ago. Intermittent problems are frustrating.
I don't want to throw money at it but am willing to if it may keeps me from being stranded.
Maybe I should try a different mechanic shop.

 

[tnduc]

Re: starter problem continued

I had the same problem. Someone on this site suggested that I put a little gear oil on the starter shaft above the gear. I did- and it worked.