'73 Merc 650 ignition problem

[virgilturtle]

Hi, I'm new here. Nice to meet ya!<br />Engine info:<br />1973 Merc 650, 65 HP, 3 cyl, SN# 3334475<br /><br />Just purchased the motor, had been stored for 2 years. When the key is turned, there is a loud "click" coming from the port side of the engine. It's heard when turning the key and again when releasing it. Positive battery cable "jumps". Engine does not turn over. <br />I rewired the engine harness, replaced corroded cables and cleaned connections. Also checked to ensure connections were correct via wiring diagram. <br />Any thoughts as to where to start diagnosing this would be greatly apprieciated. Thanks!<br />~Virgilturtle

 

[alcan]

Re: '73 Merc 650 ignition problem

You could have a bad soleniod or starter motor. Try jumping the soleniod. Try appling 12volts directly to the starter motor. You may need to replace the solenoid. Try to disassemble,clean and lube the starter motor before replacing if found defective.

 

[Greg New Zealand]

Re: '73 Merc 650 ignition problem

Hi Virgilturtle<br /><br />You mentioned that the outboard has been unused for two years. Have you checked to see whether the flywheel will turn and that it is not seized? If not pull the plugs out and turn her over.

 

[virgilturtle]

Re: '73 Merc 650 ignition problem

Thanks Alcan and Greg. I checked voltage to the starter and it wasn't getting enough. Replaced connection and it got 12V. Now the starter will attempt to engage the flywheel sometimes, but never has enough power to turn it over. Defective starter, huh? I'll disassemble, clean, and lube today. Thanks for all your help!

 

[jfholijr]

Re: '73 Merc 650 ignition problem

Post back and let us know how your repairs went and how the motor runs in the water too as I have the same motor as you but have not been able to put her in the water yet to see how she will perform. Thanks

 

[virgilturtle]

Re: '73 Merc 650 ignition problem

Turns out the starter brushes were annihilated. Everything else in the starter is very clean. Can anyone recommend a place to find a rebuild kit for this starter (Part# 50-60315)? Thanks again!

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: '73 Merc 650 ignition problem

virgilturtle,Call around to local auto repair shops and find someone who rebuilds starters for a living.They can do a complete rebuild reasonably.Or at least my guy does...$50 to $75 usually.<br />The click you hear interests me.If it occurs when you turn the key on,and again when you turn it off,maybe a bad plug wire.When using a spark tester,and the distributor in the "correct" position,one cylinder will sometimes fire.If you have a bare plug wire,the same thing can happen.<br />Any signs of rodents living under the cowl?<br />DHP

 

[papasage]

Re: '73 Merc 650 ignition problem

napa auto parts has outboard parts . or they can order them . papasage