Intermittant Starter, turns over sometime, just clicks sometimes.

[BRICH1260]

Hey guys, need a little help. I have a 2008 VP 5.7 GXI-J. Last couple of times out, first start of the day, I turn the key and just hear a loud click. After 5-10 minutes of switching batteries (A/B switch), jiggling battery cables, it finally turns over and runs fine for the rest of the day. I`m guessing my starter may be going out, but wanted to get some input from others to see if I might try something else first. Batteries are two years old, and kept on a promariner charger during the week, so I don't think it is them. Any suggestions before replacing the starter?

 

[gm280]

Not so fast with replacing the starter. Try jumping the starter solenoid first from the positive battery terminal to the starter itself and see if that turns the starter. If it does, replace the starter solenoid and happy boating. If not, then remove the starter and have it tested... The fact that you can hear a clicking sound from the starter solenoid means your key switch is working. But that doesn't mean the solenoid is passing enough current to the starter to turn it. The starter solenoid can be burnt inside and the contacts will not flow enough current to work anymore... It happens more often them you would expect... JMHO!

 

[Scott Danforth]

if it comes to life after jiggling anything, you have a loose or bad connection somewhere. start at the batteries and work your way to the starter, removing and cleaning and re-installing every connection. then use electrical varnish and coat every connection.

 

[Thalasso]

if it comes to life after jiggling anything, you have a loose or bad connection somewhere. start at the batteries and work your way to the starter, removing and cleaning and re-installing every connection. then use electrical varnish and coat every connection.

Bingo.
We have a winner

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,..... Agreed,.... Scott's got the answer,.....

I've taken to sprayin' the clean connections with Fluid Film though,.....

 

[f_inscreenname]

I would give everything an extra twist but make sure the batteries are turned off. Nothing like arc welding a wrench to the side of the motor block to make you pay attention.