Intermittent starter problem

[8x56mn]

1981 Sting Ray 3.0 140 MC I/O. Sold this boat to a friend last fall. Late in the season it developed an intermittent starter problem. It would click when the key was turned and would require jumping the terminals and would then start right up. I cleaned all terminals and thought I fixed the problem as it never failed to turn when I bumped the starter by turning the ignition switch. Now it's doing the same thing, new owner went through the trouble shooting process steps, but still has the problem. Can anyone help?

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

While you are trying to start, measure the voltage in these three places relative to ground at the battery:

1) At the start terminal of the starter solenoid(small stud)
2) At the large terminal of the starter that the battery cable goes to.
3) At the point where the starter solenoid connects to the starter itself.

This should help pinpoint where your problem is.

 

[tystick]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

this sounds very similar to my starter symptoms last year
it was on its way out - after i pulled it i discovered it must have got wet at some point as the insides were totally shot

 

[freelunch]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

Theres likely a flat spot between the communtator and its bushings. These parts need constant contact for the started to spin otherwise it basically gets "stuck" where current cannot pass through. Either replace the bushings with a kit or replace the starter

 

[Don S]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

Next time it doesn't work, pull out your trusty timing light and try this.
MANY, MANY times I have replace intermittent slave solenoids. Also replaced defective cables and tightened loose ones and cleaned dirty ones to fix intermittant starting.

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=167035

 

[8x56mn]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

Don, I used your downloaded trouble shooting procedure last year. Cleaned all the terminals, (all looked pristine to the eye) did all the testing of switch and others. As I stated the clicking was intermittent, as in I think I got it and then a week later it does it again. That is the biggest problem, getting it to occur so you can fix it. I have about decided that I would replace the darn solenoid and be done with it. I hate just changing parts, but the solenoid is not that salty so why not take the chance. I'm thinking if it was a flat spot why would it work when jumping the terminals, right or wrong?
Thanks to all for the advice

 

[Windykid]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

If that doesnt work try a jumper from the neg batt to the engine just to make sure the ground circuit is good.

 

[Don S]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

Which terminals are you "jumping" to make it start? That could be a clue as to what is wrong.

 

[wizardview]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

I have this same problem and jump the slave solonoid B-C and have changed slave but still no work any thoughts?

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

Have you tried to measure anything yet with a meter?

 

[wizardview]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

No have not used meter could you elaborate on this in a little more detail or is there a guide I could use?
Thanks

 

[Coors]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

we can't see it . Pay attention, these people are trying to help. (sigh). Try again.

 

[Don S]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

wizardview.......... start a new thread with your problem. This is 8x56's thread and problem. Just because your's is similar doesn't mean you should hijack this thread with your details.

 

[8x56mn]

Re: Intermittent starter problem

Well it was last year that I did actually jump the terminals and to tell you the truth I don't remember which ones. The problem as I said is it only happens now and then.
Update I just talked with the new owner to ask what terminals that he was contacting and he told me that he has just been turning the key off and on and after about five times of this is starts. I know this sounds silly, but that's what?s happening. He did just order a new solenoid. Man this is driving me nuts, I feel bad that he?s having problems, although I did tell him up front that I thought I had the problem solved, but still feel a little guilty.

Thanks for the help