Starter works sometimes

[iceman121]

I have a 1979 Johnson Javelin 85 Hp that runs good, the problem is is that when you turn the key sometimes it does not turn the starter.In fact it does not even make a sound unless you press the key for the choke. Sometimes the starter will engage but it kicks right out. Sometimes it just spins and makes a wirring noise. Please help The Solinoid on the motor was replace last year cause it was doing the same thing but made no difference

 

[JB]

Re: Starter works sometimes

Bad connections or bad cables from battery to the engine. Take them off, inspect for weak spots, clean and reattach.

Let us know what happens.

 

[Theoutdoorsman]

Re: Starter works sometimes

It sounds like the motor will turn but the bendix isn't engaging the flywheel. Try lubricating the shaft and see if this helps. If the starter isn't turning fast enough, the bendix will never engage the flywheel. Might be time for a starter rebuild if lubing the shaft of the starter doesn't help. One last note, ensure all electrical connections are clean as a pin.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Starter works sometimes

I'm with JB on this one. Good cables and connections are job #1. The rest comes after if no improvement.

 

[iceman121]

Re: Starter works sometimes

So I looked at the big red wire that attaches to the battery, it looks old and rusty. Where does that wire go? I imagine it goes to the box with the soloniod or relay correct? What gauge is it or should it be. I would not think it goes right from the battery to the starter

 

[JB]

Re: Starter works sometimes

The red one goes to the starter solenoid, iceman. The black one goes to the engine block and is a lot more likely to have corrosion.

Removing and cleaning those connections should be part of a regular preventive maintenance schedule, just like changing gearcase oil, inspecting spark plugs and replacing the impeller.

 

[DJ]

Re: Starter works sometimes

Negative battery cable to engine block is suspect. REMOVE IT and clean it. Including the bolt.

 

[iceman121]

Re: Starter works sometimes

Where should I look on the motor for the ground? Should I replace the positive cable to the solinoid? I am also of the understanding that the positve to the batery runs from the solinoid that is not on the motor but in the little box with the wires correct?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Starter works sometimes

90% of starter problems are bad connections. remove and clean both ends of the battery cables, so that they are shiney, also the cable from the solenoid to starter. check for nicks in the cables. and make sure the connectors are on the wire good. the cable tend to corrode from the inside out, if nicked, corroded wires, and connections, heat up and cause resistance to the follow of electricity, thus the starter doesn't get enough. you can also take jumper cable pos battery post to large post on starter. with a good connection, the engine should spin. then if the starter is good clean everything and retest. then trouble shoot solenoid. starters can be rebuit at a starter/alternator shop, much cheaper than a new one.

Be sure the cables area connected to the correct battery post. crossing cables, usually blows the rectifier, and can blow more.

also have the battery load tested at the auto parts store, free, i've had new batteries go bad