I have looked at the posting by DayCrusier and find that he had a similar problem. However, I have gone throgh most of what he had to do to solve his problem. I thought this posting might bring up new ideas on the same concept.<br /><br />I own a 1974 Grady White with a MercCrusier 188HP V8 I/O. For the most part, this power supply has been very reliable considering its age. However, I have gone through 2 starter solenoids over the past week. Luckily, I have not had the boat in the water. <br /><br />I have replaced the starter 1 week ago. There are no binds and it will start the engine strong when the solenoid is good. I have also replaced the battery. I have put my digital test meter on the positive lead from the solenoid to the starter and put the key switch in the start position. When I do this, I get 12.6 volts regularly, which is a good thing. When the key is in the off position, I get a .06 reading. When I put that lead on the starter, there apparently is not enough current to get the starter going. When it does go, I normally will hear the clicking of the solenoid and then a spark from the positive terminal of the battery. When this happens, all electical components go dead until I take the battery leads off and put them back on about two minutes later. When I replace a solenoid it is probably good for about 4-5 days before it fails again. My opinion is that there is something drawing current from the battery and prohibiting the proper triping of the solenoid when the key switch is engaged. I have checked every conceivable wire to the blower, bilge, trim pump, key switch, dash assembly, etc. and they all seem to be in good repair and not touching other wires.<br /><br />I was wondering if anyone else has experienced the same type of problem and if so, How did you go about fixing it.
