Starter Problems Johnson 40HP

Hello,

I recently purchased a boat that has a 1993 Johnson 40 HP motor model
# J40ELENJ. The guy that I bought it from said that it needed a new powerpack and he also said that the starter was new but needed to be put on. I installed the starter and when I turn the key all it does is spin without spinning up towards the flywheel. I decided that maybe the starter that he said was new wasnt in fact new. I bought a brand new starter, installed it and it is doing the same thing. I havent put the new powerpack on yet either. What am I doing wrong. Thanks to anyone who can help.

Re: Starter Problems Johnson 40HP

Changing parts is the most used, most expensive and least effective method of troubleshooting known to man.

First, that is a '92, not a '93.

Second, neither "new" starter fixed what is probably a bad connection in the battery cable connections that could be fixed quickly and free.

Remove and thoroughly clean all connections in the battery/starter circuit and inspect the cables themselves for weak or swollen spots.

Let us know what happens. Do not change the powerpak until you know it is bad. You don't know that yet.

Re: Starter Problems Johnson 40HP

you need a OEM johnson service manual.
90% of starter problems are bad connections. remove and clean both ends of the battery cables, so that they are shiney, also the cable from the solenoid to starter. check for nicks in the cables. and make sure the connectors are on the wire good. the cable tend to corrode from the inside out, if nicked, corroded wires, and connections, heat up and cause resistance to the follow of electricity, thus the starter doesn't get enough. you can also take jumper cable pos battery post to large post on starter. with a good connection, the engine should spin. then if the starter is good clean everything and retest. then trouble shoot solenoid. starters can be rebuit at a starter/alternator shop, much cheaper than a new one.

also have the battery load tested at the auto parts store, free, i've had new batteries go bad