1997 Mercruiser 3.0 starter begins with a pause

[artprofessor]

When I turn the key I get a slow chug or two from my starter, then a pause, then it starts turning over reasonably well and the engine starts. I do not have a power problem as the battery and alternator are new and I am getting 14v so I suspect a ground fault(?) The starter motor is obviously grounded by the engine block--perhaps a corroded wire from the battery to wherever it attaches? thanks.

 

[Don S]

Re: 1997 Mercruiser 3.0 starter begins with a pause

Are the battery cables tight (wrench tight not wing nut tight with your fingers) and clean and in good condition? Both ends of the cable?

If they are ok, it may be your starter may have some issues.

 

[artprofessor]

Re: 1997 Mercruiser 3.0 starter begins with a pause

Thanks for the post. They are clean and tight at the battery end--is the ground wire to engine block attachment generally accessible (this is a bayliner capri)?

 

[Don S]

Re: 1997 Mercruiser 3.0 starter begins with a pause

is the ground wire to engine block attachment generally accessible (this is a bayliner capri)?

Got me, go look at yours and find out. It goes to the battery, so follow the wire.