Starter/solenoid?

[bwillaub]

Went to start the motor and the starter cranks and cranks even after I turn the switch to OFF position. Had to disconnect the NEG battery cable to stop it. Figured I had a bad ignition switch so I replaced it with a new one I had on hand. Touched NEG battery cable to battery post and it started cranking again without the ignition switch being turned on. Bad solenoid? Any help will be appreciated.

 

[CadoTx]

That's what it sounds like. Try tapping on the solenoid to see if it will unstick. I would replace it even if you can get it to work properly again so you don't have problems with it while out on the water. Once a solenoid starts sticking it is only a mater of time before it sticks again or goes out.

 

[bwillaub]

Thanks. That's what I was thinking. Called the guy who usually does the work on my boat and he said it was caused by low voltage of the battery? He says it happens a lot. The low voltage causes the solenoid to stick.

 

[gm280]

bwillaub, If you own a meter you can take it and check the solenoid out and you will know for certain if it is stuck/shorted across the large terminals. But like Cado Tx stated, it sounds exactly like a stuck starter solenoid. JMHO!

 

[Fed]

What motor?
Is it new to you?
Have you done any prior work on it or did the problem start by itself one day?

 

[bwillaub]

Fed, it's a '98 Mercury Force 90 hp. I rebuilt the powerhead but I have had it out several times before the problem started. I took it to the shop yesterday. I'll let them mess with it. I recently bought a '72 Dodge Dart, a 440 cu in motor, and a 727 Torqueflite transmission. Most of my spare time will be devoted to the car project for the next few months.