83/84 Johnson V4 90 starting problems

I just a put a new starter on this engine last summer, and has ran fine all year long. Last weekend between fishing trips, I went to crank and all I got was a click or two. Sometimes no click at all when I turn the key. I tried jumping it off, that did not work. I have fully charged the battery same issue. I am thinking solenoid, but I am no expert.

Thanks for advice

Re: 83/84 Johnson V4 90 starting problems

try jumping the solenoid with a screw driver...

Re: 83/84 Johnson V4 90 starting problems

Could be battery, solenoid or wiring. Do you have a voltmeter?

-measure voltage across battery posts when attempting to crank (10v. min)
-measure voltage from engine ground to large cable solenoid positive when attempting to crank(10v. min)
-measure voltage to solenoid small terminal black/yellow when attempting to crank(10v. min)
-measure voltage from starter motor positive stud to engine ground (10v. min)
while attempting to crank

do the readings and let us know your findings.....

cheers

Re: 83/84 Johnson V4 90 starting problems

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

Re: 83/84 Johnson V4 90 starting problems

Do the things that cost nothing first. Clean connections etc.

Re: 83/84 Johnson V4 90 starting problems

Thanks for the advice. I do not have volt meter but i can get one. I got the starter to spin by jumping it off of the battery with the positive lead. I will clean the all connections and check them as well.

I also got the starter to spin, but it did not engage, after I tightened some connections, but then it just quit all together.