1989 125 force starting problems

[JPMik]

Pulled my boat out of storage and went to start it. It seemed to turn over very slowly.
I charged the battery over night and tried again, still the same. Thinking it was the battery since it was 6 years old I got a new one and still the same thing. Do you think it might be the starter?
Thanks in advance
Mik

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: 1989 125 force starting problems

Probably 95% of all starter problems is electrical. Is the battery fully charged? Check all your connections. They must be very clean and tight. Check the lugs very closely for any signs of corrosion. They can corrode inside where you can't see it and cause the problem you are having. If you know how to do a voltage drop test you could check them that way. Another way would be to temporally substitute the cables with jumper cables. If all the cables have been confirmed good, try jumping the starter solenoid. Just because it clicks does NOT mean its good. If you are sure the solenoid is good have your battery load tested, regardless of age. This brings you to the starter itself. Remove it and have it tested by your local auto electric shop. They can rebuild it for you if needed and save you some money. Let us know how you make out.

 

[gussbuster]

Re: 1989 125 force starting problems

I agree with Bhile....check the ground before replacing. Ive had the same problem and replaced the starter only to find out it was as simple as cleaning a ground connection. Keep us posted!

 

[JPMik]

Re: 1989 125 force starting problems

Thanks i'll check the wiring and connections this morning and let you know what happens.

 

[JPMik]

Re: 1989 125 force starting problems

Thanks guys I checked the wiring and as it turns out when I replaced the tilt and trim unit this past winter I never had the ground wire from the battery connected to the bolt, it was only touching the other wires. I quess it was making enough connection for the tilt & radio to work but not enough for the starter.
Thanks again,
Mik