1997 25hp mercury outboard starter problem

[kd5jnl]

when I push the starter button the solenoid clicks but the starter won't engage. I can hold the starter button down and spin the gear at the top of the starter and it will engauge. Is this a starter problem or solenoid? Thanks in advance.<br />Brice

 

[The Marine Doctor]

Re: 1997 25hp mercury outboard starter problem

It sounds like a dead spot on the starter.<br /><br />TMD

 

[JB]

Re: 1997 25hp mercury outboard starter problem

Or, it could be a poor connection or cable in your starter circuit.<br /><br />Put a voltmeter from the starter hot terminal to the block and try to start it. You should get 9-11V. <br /><br />If not, try it at the solenoid input terminal. Same voltage? Bad connection or battery cable. <br /><br />If you have 12V into the starter and it doesn't engage, bad starter.<br /><br />If you have 12v into the solenoid, but low or no voltage to the starter, bad solenoid.<br /><br />Good luck.