warmed up engine will not re-start

brown bomb

Recruit
Joined
Aug 5, 2003
Messages
1
Twice this season, I've been stuck on the lake after turning off and trying to re-start my 1984/86, 70hp, 4-cyl. (in-line) Mercruiser (I/O on a 19-ft Larson bowrider). Seems to only be a problem when the engine has been operating/warmed-up, such as after cruising at 20-30 mph for 30 min or more. I turn the key, hear a single click on the starter, battery voltage remains good at 12-13+, but engine will not turn over, even after repeated tries over time (while waiting for the tow). Connections on starter and battery are complete and clean/not corroded. After being towed to the dock the last time (about 1-1/2 hours later with outside air cooling it), I tried turning the key one last time and, to my surprise and embarassment, it started just as easily as it always does at the beginning of a trip (like a charm). Any ideas on what the problem could be? Currently, my rule is "Don't turn off the engine."
 

McKenzie

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Apr 25, 2003
Messages
192
Re: warmed up engine will not re-start

my guess is the starter solenoid. If the voltage stays the same like you say, that most likely means that the solenoid isn't delivering power to the starter. If it was the starter malfunctioning and the solenoid was fine, the volts would probably drop down further due to the load. That's my guess, could be wrong :)
 

medic

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
May 18, 2003
Messages
111
Re: warmed up engine will not re-start

I would agree with McKenzie, starter solenoid. It is getting hot and not working until it has cooled down. This recently happened to a friends boat. Would not start. While being towed in, he hit the key and it fired up after it had cooled.
 
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