Ignigition Problem

B

bluethunder

Recruit
Joined
Jun 28, 2006
Messages
5
1984 Rinker with 185R Mercruiser V6

Sometimes when I turn the key in the ignition switch, nothing happens (no clicking, nothing). If I turn it off and back on 2 or 3 times, the engine will start right up. Based on great advice from another boater in the forum, I replaced the ignition switch. But the problem persists. Is it possible that the starter is bad? Or the starter solenoid? (Please excuse my ignorance; I'm not a mechanic by a long stretch!) Thanks in advance for any helpful advice!
 
H

harveje

Seaman
Joined
May 25, 2006
Messages
64
Re: Ignigition Problem

Check all connections for corrosion, loose fittings /cables. Make sure all wires and grounds are good under the dash. If starter is bad the solenoid should still click. Make sure the trigger wire on the solenoid is making good contact and has a good ground.
 
B

bluethunder

Recruit
Joined
Jun 28, 2006
Messages
5
Re: Ignigition Problem

Thanks for the advice. I have heard people talking about sometimes getting a "bad spot" in the starter (assume it's really a worn place in the wire wrapping inside...again excuse the ignorance in terminology). And if the starter happens to disengage at the "bad spot", it has problems the next time you try to start it. But based on your info about the soleniod still clicking even if the starter is bad, I'm assuming the "bad spot" in the starter isn't the problem. Is there a similar kind of symptom for a bad solenoid? Or a way to check the solenoid to see if it's working properly? I'm planning to check/clean the connections tonight, but was just thinking of next steps if that doesn't fix it. Thanks again...you guys out here on the forum are great!
 
Boatin Bob

Boatin Bob

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Sep 24, 2001
Messages
1,858
Re: Ignigition Problem

Most solenoids will have at least 3 terminals. You will see 2 big ones and a small one, one will have 12v on it the other big (going to starter) one won't have anything until the solenoid is energized by the small terminal. Next time it happens and there is no click use a meter or a 12v test light from ground to the small terminal, if there is 12v there while turning the key to start most likely the solenoid is bad or bad ground. If there is no 12v there with key to start you need to go further up the chain, since you've already changed the ignition switch there is usually a safety switch in the control box (gearshift/throttle) that will only allow the starter to work if you are in neutral.
 
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