starter issue

[GRemedy]

I have a 1985 85hp Force outboard. I bought the boat used and it runs well. After a few runs on the lake I turned the key and heard the starter spinning but the bendix was not engaging. I opened the cover and saw that the spring, retaining collar and nut were off the top of the starter. I found all the pieces and tightened as best I could. Once home I cranked on the nut really good to get it to stay, but this last weekend it did the same thing. Any ideas as to how I can get that nut to stay on the top of the starter? I'm thinking about finding a lock nut and replacing the old one. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks,

 

[pnwboat]

Re: starter issue

Usually they take a metal punch and deform the nut slightly so that it won't work it's way off. You could try a lock nut or some of the high strength red Loctite 271 or both.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: starter issue

YUP! New lock nut is the way to go. The old nut should be either a lock nut or a deformed thread nut. If you put it in a vice and either squeeze it so the hole deforms slightly or "stake it on 3 sides with a punch, it will grab the threads of the starter and not work loose.

 

[GRemedy]

Re: starter issue

Thanks for the help. Think I'll give it a squeeze and if that doesn't work I'll pick up a new one.