Boat starting problem...help please
#11
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Assuming the control circuit is ok (solenoids, switch, wiring, etc.), my best guess would be that the main engine grounds are loose or corroded. Don't just check the negative cables on the battery, but follow them back all the way to the engine. If they look good, take a jumper cable from the battery (+ and -) attach the negative (-) to the starter bracket and then take the positive (+) and touch either end of the red cable going from the starter lug to the solenoid - whatever is easier. If the motor turns over, starter and mechanicals are ok, you have an electrical fault with the grounding or the solenoids.
If motor still will not turn over, I would pull the starter out and have it tested (you said the motor turns over- right?). If starter is ok, it may not be meshing with the flywheel properly and may need shims.
99% of the time you will find the answer with this troubleshooting method. Just make sure there are no gas fumes round as you may get a few sparks when you touch the (+) end of the cable to the starter lug.
Let us know.
-L
If motor still will not turn over, I would pull the starter out and have it tested (you said the motor turns over- right?). If starter is ok, it may not be meshing with the flywheel properly and may need shims.
99% of the time you will find the answer with this troubleshooting method. Just make sure there are no gas fumes round as you may get a few sparks when you touch the (+) end of the cable to the starter lug.
Let us know.
-L
Last edited by ljsmith1; 05-15-2007 at 01:13 PM. Reason: clarification
#12
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Take an ohm meter, and check the continuity of the heavy cable from the battery to the solenoid, and the one from the solenoid to the starter. Or at least take a test light, and check at each attachment point to make sure voltage is making it to the starter. Also, make sure the solenoid on the starter is being energized.
#13
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Thanks Jeff, I actually pulled the ground cable off the engine and cleaned up both ends really well and put it back on to no avail.
The starter is brand new, first thing I replaced in hopes of it being the problem.
I will do the test tonight, and post back up.
Thanks again!
The starter is brand new, first thing I replaced in hopes of it being the problem.
I will do the test tonight, and post back up.
Thanks again!
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agreed, but I did bench test it with power and it worked. So I am leaning towards it working. Like I said, right now the power isnt even reaching it to try to spin it.
#16
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Verry simple test, try putting a remote starter switch on the starter and pushing the button to see if it works? This should only take a couple of minutes.
If it turns over it will tell you your starter is good and your battery connections are good to the starter. If this works start going backwards to the slave solenoid (again).
If it turns over it will tell you your starter is good and your battery connections are good to the starter. If this works start going backwards to the slave solenoid (again).
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Ok, I jumpered the starter and it spins, I checked the continueity of the wires from the battery to the starter, from the starter to the solenoid, thru the solenoid, thru the breaker switch. There is a wire running off the solenoid to the alternator I believe. Didnt check that because of the pain in the ass factor, but I would still think the starter would turn. I have continuety thru from the key as well.
Anyone else have any other ideas? I'm thinking match and gasoline.
Anyone else have any other ideas? I'm thinking match and gasoline.
#18
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If the slave solenoid is still clicking I would be looking in that area. Sounds like you are getting closer.
Did you ever check the plug in the wire harness? You might want to pull it out and make sure there is no corrosion.
Just think of the satisfaction you will have after you find this problem
Did you ever check the plug in the wire harness? You might want to pull it out and make sure there is no corrosion.
Just think of the satisfaction you will have after you find this problem
#19
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Sounds to me like you have the two small wires on the starter solenoid switched around...the yellow with red goes to the inside and the purlple one goes on the outside...or just the yellow red on the inside if there is only one.....that would make the main solenoid not work.
#20
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Might think about the ignition switch itself as well. Definitely is electrical which means it will be a smple fix once found. Back up, take a deep breath, and let go of any complicated thoughts....As mentioned above, sounds like you're slowly zeroing in, good luck.