Trouble starting engine

[Cobalt226]

I have a 1999 Cobalt 226 with 7.4L Merc Alpha One. The last few days I have had trouble getting my starter to engage without wiggling or moving throttle control several times back and forth into neutral before it will finally fire. It seems like it might be a linkage issue or maybe the contacts inside the throttle control? The engine runs fine, just frustrating to get it to fire. Anyone have any ideas?

 

[Failproof]

Re: Trouble starting engine

Sounds like youve got a handle on where to start looking. Neutral safety switch/control adjustment to start.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Trouble starting engine

I have a 1999 Cobalt 226 with 7.4L Merc Alpha One. The last few days I have had trouble getting my starter to engage without wiggling or moving throttle control several times back and forth into neutral before it will finally fire. It seems like it might be a linkage issue or maybe the contacts inside the throttle control? The engine runs fine, just frustrating to get it to fire. Anyone have any ideas?

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,... I agree with Failproof,...

The neutral safety switch in the controller sounds like it's goin' Bad...

 

[NHGuy]

Re: Trouble starting engine

Sounds like the neutral safety switch. Does the controller lever work well otherwise? Or is it loose, tight, crooked or anything out of the ordinary?
If the lever works right do a visual on the assembly. On most boats this could involve laying on the floor in front of the pilot position and looking up under the gunnel. Maybe you are lucky and the switch is a little loose in it's spot. Worse case you replace the control, but a lot of things like that can be repaired.
Oh, also...disconnect the battery before putting an metal like screwdrivers in by the wiring.

 

[NHGuy]

Re: Trouble starting engine

Also, if you can identify the controller brand and/or model you might be able to get some info on it's setup online. Google and Bing are your friend!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Trouble starting engine

I have a 1999 Cobalt 226 with 7.4L Merc Alpha One. The last few days I have had trouble getting my starter to engage without wiggling or moving throttle control several times back and forth into neutral before it will finally fire. It seems like it might be a linkage issue or maybe the contacts inside the throttle control? The engine runs fine, just frustrating to get it to fire. Anyone have any ideas?

Ayuh,... Please read the forum posting guide lines,....

'n post yer question, Only Once,... in Only One forum,...

Thank you...