90hp Force 1991-1992 starter

[usery]

Hi,
I believe I have an early 90’s force 90HP outboard motor, Serial number OEO61952. I am at a loss with what is wrong with the starting system. I tested the continuity across the solenoid and solinoid to starter and it all rang out. If I hook the battery straight to the starter it turns. But when I turn the key the starter won’t turn. I am able to measure 12 V getting to the solenoid when the key is in the on position. Trim works and I can hear the choke engaging when I push the key in. The key did turn the starter about a month ago and then I changed the steering cable and it has not worked since. What else can I be checking to see what my issue is?

 

[Jiggz]

If you measure 12V going to the solenoid, technically, the solenoid should have a loud "click" meaning it is engaging. If you do not hear the loud click then the solenoid is not engaging. Another test would be to directly connect the solenoid control circuit to the battery using jumper wires. I am referring to the small red wire from the solenoid that runs to the ignition switch. Using a jumper wire connected to the battery +, touch the terminal with the small red wire and the solenoid should click and engaged. If not, then the solenoid either is bad or is missing a ground connection. If it click but the starter doesn't turn, it means either a loose connection from the solenoid to the battery or to the starter. These are the two large terminals with red wires on the solenoid. Or it could be a loose ground wire connection from the battery to the engine block. If the solenoid clicks and the starter turn, then there is a problem with the ignition switch wire to the solenoid control circuit which is the small red wire.

As for the engine ground wire, simply tightening this will not resolve your problem. You need to dismount the cable terminal, clean it shiny with wire brush. Then clean the other mating surface on the engine block with wire brush also. Better yet, apply a thin coat of electrical grease and then reconnect.

 

[Nordin]

Are the neutral safety switch engage?
Measure the voltage between the thin wire terminal at starter solenoid and ground.
When turning keyswitch to start position you should read 12VDC.