'99 90 Hp Merc Starter Problems

[gbearden]

Good Evening;

I have a 1999 90 hp Merc Elpto 3 cyl outboard. Took it out fishing this weekend and at the last hole I turned the motor off and noticed that the starter motor was still running. In order to get back in I started the motor back up and then disconnected the battery so that the starter motor does not run. When the battery is connected the starter motor runs, even when the ignition is off!!!

-Is this the solenoid? Please advise

Thanks So much

 

[Silvertip]

Re: '99 90 Hp Merc Starter Problems

It's either the solenoid or the switch. Using a voltmeter or test light, check the small wire on the solenoid with the key off. If you see 12 volts, the key switch is the issue or there is a short that puts +12V on that line even though the key is off (unlikely problem but it could be shorted on the back of the switch). If not, check the large post that feeds the starter. If you see 12V the solenoid is the problem.

 

[gbearden]

Re: '99 90 Hp Merc Starter Problems

The Ignition switch has been disconnected alltogether.....So it is out of the equation. I assume then that the solenoid is bad... just wanted to make sure it wasnt my starter.

Thanks

 

[gbearden]

Re: '99 90 Hp Merc Starter Problems

I went ahead and ordered a new solenoid. Cant be too sure,...

I was looking at my regulator though and noticed that the plastic of the wire connections were melted a little. Is this because we ran the motor without the battery? Is the regulator ok.

Was checking the battery connections and they look right. I hook the red positive to the solenoid and the black to the mounting bolt on the starter (bottom). Been using it like this for years.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: '99 90 Hp Merc Starter Problems

Running an engine without a battery is a good way to kill the charging system. Becaue the connections "look" good means absolutely nothing. Disconnect them, make them shiny clean and tighten securely. That means BOTH ends. Your connections to the engine are correct, UNLESS you have the positive cable from the battery connected to the same terminal on the solenoid that the starter cable is connected to. In that case the motor would run all the time since you have essentially bypassed the solenoid.

 

[gbearden]

Re: '99 90 Hp Merc Starter Problems

Stupid Motor


I replaced the solenoid; and now when I turn the key I hear the solenoid click, but the starter doesnt budge. Almost like it is not getting power.

Anyone wanna buy a boat.

Please advise

Thanks

 

[halmc]

Re: '99 90 Hp Merc Starter Problems

Stupid Motor


I replaced the solenoid; and now when I turn the key I hear the solenoid click, but the starter doesnt budge. Almost like it is not getting power.

Anyone wanna buy a boat.

Please advise

Thanks

I'll take the motor. You can check the condition of the starter (after you ensure that the starter is tightly bolted to the engine to make a good ground) by connecting a single jumper cable first to the starter terminal, then second, connecting it momentarily to the positive battery post. If the starter runs, it's good. If it doesn't, it's very likely bad. Leave the ignition off because you don't want the engine to start, just then, if the starter is good.

Also at the risk of insulting you, make sure that the click you hear is the click of the starter solenoid and not the click the enrichener (choke, or primer, if you prefer)