'83 Merc 150 Cold Starting Problem

[captaintj]

I have been having a cold starting problem lately with the engine. When I turn the key the engine only makes a humming sound until the key is released. This morning (overnight it dipped into the low 30s and a good frost was on the ground this morning) when I tried multiple times it wouldnt engage and fire. I thought that with the very cold night we had maybe the battery was the problem, so I had it tested and it was fine. I left the battery inside to get it warmed up a little. A few hours later hooked it back up. The engine did the same humming sound each time I turned the key and then finally engaged and fired on about the 10th attempt. After the engine has run for a few minutes the problem is gone until it sits for several hours. Starter maybe? Any ideas or suggestions of what the problem could be or remedies would be great. Thanks

-- T.J.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: '83 Merc 150 Cold Starting Problem

TJ - It sounds like the bendix of the starter is dirty, causing the drive gear to stick in the down osition and nt engage the flywheel. The cure is to clean the bendix and lightly oil it.

 

[captaintj]

Re: '83 Merc 150 Cold Starting Problem

Thats what I was gonna check. I've seen a few different websites that talked about oiling the bendix. Some say WD40 is ok, others say motor oil. Which would you suggest?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: '83 Merc 150 Cold Starting Problem

I suggest not using motor oil. Cold is already your enemy here. You want the bendix to work freely. Clean the shaft and grooves carefully. I use a product called TriFlo. Its slippery and doesn't leave a thick oily mess in which dust and dirt get collected. WD40 will work too but make sure you clean things up first.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: '83 Merc 150 Cold Starting Problem

don't left it soak down in the starter motor. use sparingly.