1999 Bayliner Capri 21.5 Random start issues

Gsxrgrizz

Recruit
Joined
Jul 20, 2015
Messages
2
I just "inherited" a boat as the father in law no longer wants to deal with it,...not trying to give the impression it is a piece of crap or there is a lot wrong with it, he took VERY good care of it!!! That being said, there is one problem that just started recently and I am a 3 hour drive to a boat mechanic so i would like to try and sort it out myself if I could.

When I try to start the boat I can turn the key and the normal annoying horn will sound but when I try to actually start it sometimes it will not turn over....like there is nothing...not a sound to be heard. No clicking, no turning over nothing. If I turn the key off then on again it might do the same thing or it might start...it's completely random!!! Eventually however, turning the key on then off again will get it started. When it does start, it starts and operates normally with the exception of it cranks over 6 or 6 times before catching. It also seems to be random as to when it will do it.....this week it won't ever happen then all of a sudden....

Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated!!!!


Edit; Removed link
 
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NYBo

Admiral
Joined
Oct 23, 2008
Messages
7,107
Welcome to iboats!:welcome:

Most likely culprits: A bad connection, a bad starter relay or solenoid, a bad ignition switch. The first is the most likely. Remove all related connections (one at a time to prevent confusion as to what goes where) and make sure everything is bright and shiny, then reconnect securely.

When it does crank, does it seem to be at full speed?
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,308
Ayuh,.... Probably corroded wirin' connections,.....

Start at the battery terminals, 'n Clean 'em to shiny metal Clean,....
Then the other ends of those wires,....
Then the wirin' at the solenoids, 'n starter,....
 

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,771
Having to crank an engine for long periods or repeated attempts at starting says 1) improper starting technique or 2) engine needs a tune-up or 3) both
 
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