1988 citation cuddy w/3.7l mercruiser won't start

[rbmc20]

I removed starter and tested it. The solenoid wouldn't engage but i could get the starter to turn. Tore it all apart cleaned it up and all contacts. Tested again and worked. Put starter back in and try to start i could here the solenoid engage but didn't turn. I read the trouble shooting in adults only but right now I am at a loss. Any ideas?

 

[Eric 3.7LX Alpha 1]

What did you tear apart and clean the starter? or the wires on the starter?

 

[rbmc20]

Checked and cleaned all the internals. Cleaned all corrosion rust out and reassembled it. Tested it after and worked. Put back in boat and doesn't turn over. Sounds like its engaging but not turning.

 

[stonyloam]

Could be what you hear is the slave solenoid activating, but not making contact. Try jumping the starter solenoid directly to 12 volts (the terminal with the yellow wire) to see if the starter turns. If it does, chances are that it is the slave that is the problem. See if you have 12v on the large slave terminal with the yellow wire when you hit start.

 

[rbmc20]

Will give that a try. Thanks stonyloam! Is there a picture somewhere of the slave solenoid and starter wired? Going from the diagram there are more wires that were connected than what the diagram shows. I put it back like it was before, just would like to see a picture of exactly what its supposed to be. Keep in mind this is my first stab at doing any type of mechanical work

 

[stonyloam]

Here is a manual for your engine: It should be displaying the wiring diagram for your engine. http://boatinfo.no/lib/mercruiser/manuals/mercruiser8.html#/128 if not look for page 129.

 

[rbmc20]

Unfortunately my tablet or phone doesn't support adobe flash player and computer is a pos that would be more useful as an anchor. Thanks I will get to a computer asap to view. I appreciate it very much!