Mercruiser starting problems

[crnr]

I have a Mercruiser 4.3 LX in a 1996 Chapparall SS183 boat. It has been trouble free until this season and is maintained regularly.<br /><br />Sometimes, when trying to start I just get a click on the ignition with a fully charged battery..suggesting a flat spot in the starter?? After a couple of clicks it cranks fine.<br /><br />The real problem, however, is that the engine will start first time in the day and run only a few seconds then quit. Then I have to crank it many times before it will start. The starter cranks strongly. I am thinking that it is a fuel problem...perhaps in drawing the fuel from the tank at the front of the boat to the engine at the back?? Once it starts and runs for a while, it will start again easily all day.<br /><br />All suggestions welcome. Thanks.

 

[qystan]

Re: Mercruiser starting problems

You have 2 separate problems.<br /><br />If your description is exact, the 'click' problem is a bad starter soleniod - not the starter.<br /><br />The second is likely in the fuel supply side of things. Check line connections for signs of leakage.

 

[crnr]

Re: Mercruiser starting problems

Thanks for the prompt post. I agree with the starter solenoid suggestion. I will look into replacing that before it gets any worse. As far as the fuel....do you think that air could be getting into the system?? I cannot see or smell any apparent leaks of fuel.

 

[qystan]

Re: Mercruiser starting problems

If the fuel lines looks ok. I don't have anymore suggestions, no real experience in this area.<br /><br />I had similar, bit of cranking needed to get it going. Solved when I cleaned the rotor cap terminals (inside terminals which come into contact with the rotor) with a metal/chrome polish. Give it a try.