Starter, solenoid?

[ddb]

I've been having some starting issues with my 90 HP Mercury the last few times out. Didn't consistently engage, first thoughts were not in gear, etc. Second thought was the battery, replaced it. Last time out the starter would not engage at all. Limped back to the ramp with my trolling motor. Fortunately I suspected trouble so I didn't go far. Now I've moved on to trying to figure out if it's the solenoid, starter, or something else. I'm getting power to the solenoid (12.6 V), and the solenoid 'clicks' when I turn the key, but no power to the starter and the starter doesn't engage. So, should I be thinking solenoid or starter, or something else? I'd guess solenoid, but why is it clicking then?

Thanks for any help.

[Jumptrout51]

You can jump across the solenoid to engage the starter.
If that works, replace the solenoid.

[mbweimar]

Check to see if you're getting voltage on the other side of the solenoid with the key on. If so, it's likely a bad starter. Also inspect the connections, and wire between the solenoid and starter for loose connections, corrosion, or a short to ground. You can gently tap the starter with a hammer, or screwdriver. Sometimes that'll help if the brushes aren't making a good connection. Then you know its time to replace or rebuild.

[fishinfool]

As mbweimar said, check your connections. A bad or dirty ground connection can cause those symptoms. It will also allow you to see plenty of voltage. Most starters are case grounded. Removing the bolts and wire brushing the mounting points will cure it if that is the problem.

[Flint River Pirate]

You would be surprised what a little corrosion around the connections would cause. I'm with these guys, check every single connection point.

[ddb]

thanks for all the suggestions. As soon as the rain stops and I get some time to look some more I'll try them out.

[MudDucker]

The number 1 and number 2 problem that marine mechanics make big money from are: 1) bad gas stopping up jets/injectors and 2) corrosion causing wiring issues.

[Hiljun]

I had the same problem a few weeks back. A brush was bad and cost 38.50 to get it fixed. I think the name of the place was ricks starter not sure though. Can find out if needed. I dropped it off one evening and picked it up the next morning.

[ddb]

Thanks for those that offered the suggestions. After a little more diagnostics I ordered a solenoid and just got done installing. I appear to be back in business again.

Do these go out on there own, or should I be looking at something else as well?

[Flint River Pirate]

Those tend to go bad sometimes. I have seen them go bad due to loose connections too. Glad to hear you are back in business.