2000 campion 4.3 mercrusier start issues

[shaneomac92]

Hey guys,

First time poster, just bought a new to me boat, also first time boat purchase. Had it out prior to buying on the guys lake, worked fine. Got it home, and got the trailer road worthy. Had it hooked up to water, started again fine. Yesterday, brought it to lake, got it in water, excited for first time out and went to start it. Starter engaged, engine turning over, but would not start. No big deal, it had sat for a bit as I got trailer ready. Turn it over again, but this time starter engages for a second, and then free spins. Everytime I try to start it, same thing, engages for a second and then free spins. Get it loaded onto trailer, and brought it home. Tighten down battery connections and clean them, still same issue.

I then try to crank it over with the key and the slave solonoid on top of the engine just clicks, and motor no longer cranks. I just the 2 terminals and the starter again will engage for a second and start to turn over but then just free spins.

I know I should replace the slave solonoid as its a easy fix, but should I change the starter out now? I searched the forums , but couldnt find anyone having same issue that it engages for a second but then free spins.

Thanks alot.

Shane

 

[alldodge]

COuld have the starter tested but with it not staying engaged it would tell me the starter needs repaired/replaced

 

[shaneomac92]

Just spent a lot of time googling. It is possible that while turning it over, it got hydrolocked? Read an article just now, about turning it over and not starting, sucking water in exhaust, and then the guys starter doing same thing as mine

 

[alldodge]

If you think its hydrolocked, pull plugs and crank it over

 

[nola mike]

Hydrolock typically will "clunk" and stop. Starter wouldn't spin unless you broke a tooth on the ring gear