2009 Yamaha 90 2-Stroke Starter Problem

Starter wil not engage the fly wheel. I can manualy lift the little gear however when I turn the key the gear just sits there and doesn't engage the fly wheel. Several questions come to mind. 1. Do I need a new starter? 2. Can the existing starter be rebuilt? 3. And if I do need a starter, do I go OEM or will after market work just as well? Thanks in advance.

Re: 2009 Yamaha 90 2-Stroke Starter Problem

Hi, Dennis,

Welcome to iboats.

The first thing to do is investigate the starter electrical circuit. Remove and clean all connections of the big wires from the battery to the engine and solenoid and from the solenoid to the starter motor. While you have the connections off, check the wires for weak or swollen spots. Check your battery for full charge.

If that doesn't clear it up, run jumper cables directly from the battery to the starter (+) and engine block (-). If your starter still fails to work correctly, pull it off. Open it up and inspect the brushes and commutator for condition and connection.

You starter can be overhauled at a modest cost, compared to a new one, if it is needed.

Remember the wrench's motto: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

Re: 2009 Yamaha 90 2-Stroke Starter Problem

I am thinking you mean the starter is turning OK but will not engage the flywheel to turn the motor.

The Bendix (gear/clutch mechanism) should jump up when starter is turning, but maybe binding and need cleaning or could be the starter is not turning properly to spin it up the shaft.
Be careful when lubing the shaft, if you get lube inside the clutch mechanism, the clutch will slip instead of turning the main motor once it is engaging the flywheel

Re: 2009 Yamaha 90 2-Stroke Starter Problem

Thanks guys. Am going to work on it this weekend. I'll keep you updated. "D"