Yamaha 8 starter won't come all the way up and engage flywheel

[HuntConrad]

The starter wirrs but won't come up and engage. Batteries look good with a voltage meter. any other thoughts?

[Silvertip]

You do realize you are in the Johnson/Evinrude forum right? However, a voltage reading on a battery is only valid if the battery is under load. So check the voltage with the starter spinning. Chances are you have a weak battery so have it load tested at any auto store. They normally do it for free. Loose or corroded battery cables also cause slow starter speed so disconnect and clean those connections (both ends).

[CatTwentyTwo]

You could have a bit of corrosion or dirt on the starter shaft also. I just went out to see how mine worked. With the battery disconnected, try turning the starter gear clockwise with your fingers. The gear should turn on the shaft and rise up the shaft to engage the flywheel. If the gear and shaft turn together, the gear won't rise up and you will need to free them up.