Gruntled

[pedrogrande]

can anyone explain why a starter on a 70 HP Force outboard will consistently jam the starter gear up against the flywheel. Also will not release despite some not so gentle coaxing. Along with removing pressure on flywheel etc. Getting to be afraid to go out on water. Motor runs well, but starting has become the proverbial nightmare. Had carburetor worked on for ethanol preventive maintenance. the rod with the 9 spline gear on it is extending up too far and is grinding against the flywheel. I noticed shavings under the cowl. If I could shim it back, maybe this would cure it?

 

[bentle]

Re: Gruntled

Does it go back in after motor starts or, tries to start. May need to oil the shaft that the starter gear slides up and down on. Lightly oil shaft and then see what you get.

 

[JB]

Re: Gruntled

Howdy, Pedro.

Welcome, I think.

Been a member for a year and just now posting??

Sounds like starter misalignment to me.

 

[flightdoc]

Re: Gruntled

I had this problem with my 93ish 120 Took the starter out and had a look at it. The spring above the bendix gear was damaged and not applying any pressure to the bendix to push it back down. I had my old starter on had so I swapped the springs out and fixed the problem. Not sure if it will help you but may be worth a look. As for getting it back down. I had to remove my starter and and then twist the nut on top of the starter shaft with a socket.

 

[TwoFish]

Re: Gruntled

I had the nut on top of the starter come loose. This allowed the pinion gear to ride up too high and bind on the flywheel causing it to jam.

 

[wolfie-uk]

Re: Gruntled

quick word here, i was always told NOT to lubricate the starter dog shaft, they should always be clean and dry, as if oil they attract muck and dirt and stop the dog from sliding freely.

Had a similar problem, to you on a 55, as mentioned by JB, it was a misalignment due to one of the fixing pins becoming loose.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Gruntled

Has this starter been repaired? Is it original to the engine and correct for it? Have you always had the problem?

Starter motors should have TWO shims inside the top cap and a shim and belleville washer at the bottom. Additionally, they should have a spacing collar under the nut. This collar not only retains the return spring, but spaces the bendix from rising to touch the flywheel. Most will slide down the shaft but some are designed to ride on the top land below the nut threads. The top nut must be tightened all the way down as it locates the collar.

Don't be worried about taking the boat out: The ignition is self energising and these engines are easy to rope start. So, if the starter craps out or the battery dies, just pull out your trusty lawnmower rope, turn on the ignition, and give it a yank. -- Or two-or three.