2003 Yamaha F115 won't start

[bcreel]

Starter pops up and engages flywheel, but will not turn flywheel. Hear a click and a whirring noise when attempting to turn over. The flywheel turns stiffly. I can turn it by hand, but not easily. I pulled the plugs, and the flywheel moved easier. The plugs looked black, but I didn't check for a spark. The motor sat for ~ 3 months. The only thing done to it since last start was I replaced the water separator.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: 2003 Yamaha F115 won't start

did ya check the battery voltage ?

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: 2003 Yamaha F115 won't start

Are those battery connections clean and tool-tight(not just finger-tight)?

 

[31900]

Re: 2003 Yamaha F115 won't start

I suggest you remove your battery connectors, wash them and the battery terminals with a paint brush in a solution of water and bicarb soda, about a teaspoon full in a tumbler of water. You will be done when the foaming finishes. Charge the battery on a slow rate (2 amps)to start over 24 hours then reconnect the terminals making sure they are tight as Billy says tool tight. Cover the terminals and connectors with vaseline.If your battery is sound it will turn over the motor as it should. If not, check grounds and connections to the starter thouroughly. If they are OK suspect your battery, have it discharge tested (local automotive electrician will do) , and if necessary replace it. Preventative maintenance is best. Check your battery electrolite levels frequently, top the cells up with distilled water to the correct level, keep your terminals clean as described and if the boat is not in frequent use, place a trickle charger over your battery for a day each 14 days. Without a good battery you will be up **** creek in a barbwire canoe.