starter wont disengage

[randybrown103]

I have a 1990 OMC Cobra, 5.8 . The starter wouldn't quit running so I changed the solenoid and the switch. worked for a few minutes then started doing it again. now the battery cable got hot and melted the terminal. all the wires were put back on the original posts..could the solenoid be bad even though it was new, or is it the startet?

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,...... Welcome Aboard,.... Ya need a test light to find where the power is comin' from, insteada just throwin' parts at it, hopin' to get lucky,....

 

[gm280]

There are three possibilities. First, the starter itself could be stuck and spinning via the flywheel. Second, the starter solenoid could be welded close on the main terminal and applying constant voltage to the starter. And third, the key switch could be allowing a voltage to the small terminal on the starter solenoid and therefore keeping it running. So you have to start testing things to see what is causing the problem. If you know how to use a meter, start by checking for voltage on the small solenoid terminal. If you do, the key switch is bad. If not, then test to see if you have voltage at the starter itself. If so, your starter solenoid is welded close. If not, then your starter is bad... JMHO!