Starter problem

[Dirty Worm]

I have a 1995 Islander C.C. with a 88hp Johnson OB.
The gear on top of the starter will not jump up to engage the wheel, I used a screw driver to hold it up to engage the wheel and only did it once to keep from being stranded. When I got home and turned the key the starter will not work at all, no noise or anything, just dead. The battery is charged. Do I need to replace the starter? I figure a 1995 should be replaced rather than rebuilt.
Thks

 

[BoatBuoy]

Re: Starter problem

Probably no need to replace starter yet. Remove and clean all connections from the battery --> solenoid-->starter motor. Also clean all other connections on solenoid and any and all grounds (neg. from battery). Usually this is a symptom of dirty connections somewhere, provided battery is good and well charged.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Starter problem

i also have an 88spl. 90% of starter problems are bad connections. remove and clean both ends of the battery cables, so that they are shiney, also the cable from the solenoid to starter. check for nicks in the cables. and make sure the connectors are on the wire good. the cable tend to corrode from the inside out, if nicked, corroded wires, and connections, heat up and cause resistance to the follow of electricity, thus the starter doesn't get enough. you can also take jumper cable pos battery post to large post on starter. with a good connection, the engine should spin. then if the starter is good clean everything and retest. then trouble shoot solenoid. starters can be rebuit at a starter/alternator shop, much cheaper than a new one.

 

[Dirty Worm]

Re: Starter problem

Tried claening all connections. Still nothing. I can get the starter to turn over by jumping from pos side of battery to pos post on starter, can also get it to work by jumping the pos on the starter solenoid to yellow wire on solenoid. When I turn the key nothing happens. My next thought would be starter solenoid or the key switch. Any thoughts?

 

[BoatBuoy]

Re: Starter problem

"My next thought would be starter solenoid or the key switch."

You're absolutely on track. The fact that you can jump the positive side of the solenoid to the small wire indicates a key switch or wiring problem.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Starter problem

agree unplug the big red plug and clean the contact. could be a corroded,dirty connection there also. are you is salt water or fresh water?

 

[Kevin W]

Re: Starter problem

check the neutral safety switch too!

 

[Fl_Richard]

Re: Starter problem

What about that big red 20 amp fuse. I had one of those blow once and had the same symptoms.....