1986 Mercury 150 hp XR2 Black Max

[battleship]

Was able to finally launch boat for the first time test run. Boat and motor ran well to my surprise. However, the starter at once I returned to the ramp for load up(after a decent run of 20 miles or so); starter didnt work.(Starter would spin but not hit fly gear or crank gear). It would pop up but not to full extentent to start.
Thought maybe battery was weak, but had ok charge. The starter would rise up the bottom part of fly\top gear for crank start but not enough to engage. Heres my question?????????????????????????? was the battery just weak or do I need to replace the starter? Ultimatly seeks a legitament fix.
Thanks, its a 2 stroke.

 

[j_martin]

Re: 1986 Mercury 150 hp XR2 Black Max

Not unusual for a starter with the brushes at the bottom to short out in a way that makes it look like the battery is bad. I'm supposed to be an electrical system expert, and I got pwned by my own starter last summer.

I verified it by checking starter current. It was over 300. Should be 100 - 150.

hope it helps
John