4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

lewisonthelake

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I am in the process of purchasing a boat (my first) from my father, a 2006 Reinell 191 with Volvo 4.3 GL. It has been sitting in the elements for 4 years. It was not winterized and am unsure if the block was drained prior to sitting. I bought a fresh battery and attempted to start the engine, but the starter just clicks. The starter was replaced in 2009, used a couple of times and has not been started since. I suspect the starter is bad again, but fear the engine may be seized. My mechanical ability is novice, at best, and I have never put a wrench to a boat. I would like to avoid mechanic fees, if possible, and at least diagnose the problem myself. I am in need of advice.
 

Bondo

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Re: 4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

I am in the process of purchasing a boat (my first) from my father, a 2006 Reinell 191 with Volvo 4.3 GL. It has been sitting in the elements for 4 years. It was not winterized and am unsure if the block was drained prior to sitting. I bought a fresh battery and attempted to start the engine, but the starter just clicks. The starter was replaced in 2009, used a couple of times and has not been started since. I suspect the starter is bad again, but fear the engine may be seized. My mechanical ability is novice, at best, and I have never put a wrench to a boat. I would like to avoid mechanic fees, if possible, and at least diagnose the problem myself. I am in need of advice.

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,... Have ya checked the oil levels yet,..??

Were they low, or high,..??

Is the starter Clickin', or Clunkin',..??

Have ya removed the spark plugs, 'n looked for signs of rust,..??

After sittin' out for 4 years, I'm guessin' the row that needs hoin' is well above the abilities you say yer at...
Odds are quite high, yer needin' a new motor...
 

lewisonthelake

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Re: 4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

I checked the engine oil and it seemed to be a bit high, but figured that was due to draining into the pan. Oil looks and smells normal, no sign of water. The starter clicks. Next time I go, I plan to check the plugs.
 

Don S

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Re: 4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

Is it the starter clicking or the slave relay clicking?

Try turning the engine over by hand. Easiest way is to put a wrench on the alternator and turn in the direction of rotation of the engine.

PS: Direction of rotation is CCW looking at the flywheel.
 

Bondo

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Re: 4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

I checked the engine oil and it seemed to be a bit high, but figured that was due to draining into the pan. Oil looks and smells normal, no sign of water. The starter clicks. Next time I go, I plan to check the plugs.

Ayuh,... My guess is it's high because there's water Under it...
 

lewisonthelake

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Re: 4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

Don - When the key is turned, it clicks one time and the sound seems to come from the lower part of the engine bay. Do I need to remove the plugs in order to crank with a wrench?

Bond-o - That makes sense. Hope you are wrong, though.

I appreciate the replies, fellas.
 

RogersJetboat454

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Re: 4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

Removing the plugs would make it easier to turn over if it's going to happen. Also looking at the tips of the plugs will give you some idea what the rest of the cylinders look like. If the tips of the plugs are very rusty, chances are the cylinders are too.
 

bonzoscott

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Re: 4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

Clicking - may be corroded cables. Clean / wire brush both ends of both cables. Would be the easiest approach first.
 

Silvertip

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Re: 4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

Strange nobody has suggested that the battery might be under charged, under sized, or dead.
 

Bondo

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Re: 4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

Strange nobody has suggested that the battery might be under charged, under sized, or dead.

Ayuh,.... Yer Right,.... sometimes We, Assume too much....
 

lewisonthelake

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Re: 4.3 GL engine not turning over, clicking starter

Had time to check the boat today. I found if I remove the built in icebox, it gives direct access to a cutout to reach the starter. The connections were corroded badly, so cleaned contacts and still didn't start. Banged the starter with a rachet and it fired right up, lol. So, I will replace it asap. Has a new Napa 8470 battery. Next items I plan to tackle are the impeller and checking the gear oil. Time to read up some more. Thanks for the advice everybody.
 
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