Re: Johnson 40 hp starter "drags"
Battery is HOT!...... That is normally a condition that takes place just before the battery explodes! Have you tried another good known battery?
Other scenarios that result in a slow cranking starter are:
Loose connection somewhere in the starter circuit. Tight but dirty connection in that circuit. In either case, remove and clean the cable/wire terminal ends and whatever component they attach to, they tighten with a wrench or pliers.
A internally corroded cable. A telltale sign is that the cable becomes extremely hot at the corroded area.
And of course a failing starter.
The brush problem... If a Bosch starter, cut a groove in a wide putty knife just wide enough to slide past the armatire shaft. Sit this putty knife down upon the bush set in the end cap and push the brushes down. With the armature in its case... sit it down into the cap... Bingo!
If a Prestolite... simply use thin wire to hold the brushes back where they need to be. After they're seated, cut that thin wire and remove it.
