Engine wont crank Mercruiser

[pubber]

Some one left the radio on for a few days and the battery went dead. I charged it and now only get a slight clicking. Changed batteries,same thing. All the connections are tight and clean,circuit breaker checked. Power tilt and all accessories work. Its a 1997 3.0lx with less than 60 hrs.Any ideas?

 

[daveswaves]

Re: Engine wont crank Mercruiser

The connections are tight, but are they clean? Corrosion on the surface of the terminals can insulate the connection and cause this problem. It is possible that your solenoid is bad but I would check the easy stuff first. Sounds like you have a bad connection.

 

[MrBill]

Re: Engine wont crank Mercruiser

THM:<br /><br />First test the battery with a hydrometer after fully charging the battery....and make sure that your battery type and Mercruiser charging system are compatible (ie; Deep cycle batteries are not recommended for a substantial number of Mercruiser engines and charging systems).<br /><br />If all checks out, check the starter by tapping it with a rubber hammer, or lightly with something more substantial. Your problem sounds like worn or burnt brushes in the starter. Although we all would like it to be an easy, low cost fix, like the solenoid, the solenoid rarely fails. Don't waste your money buying one in hope that it will solve the problem, they simply don't wear out before brushes and other starter components...and electrical parts are not returnable. Also, you might check that the starter is disengaged, by cranking the engine manually a small amount (with key off !!!!).<br /><br />Hope this helps to solve your problem.....I have, over the years, found that $30 for a Mercrusier shop manual has saved me hundreds of hours of down-time and aggrevation, as well as, a lot of expense. Good luck.

 

[SS MAYFLOAT]

Re: Engine wont crank Mercruiser

Did you check your water level in your battery? If it is below the plates it will be under charged. Charging the battery numerous times will cause your water level to drop below the plates and then if the battery is completely dead, and you charged the battery with low water level, more than likely your battery is toast. I would try another battery out of your tow vehicle first before replaceing parts. I always will use a trickle charger on batteries that are drained 100%. High amp charging will cook your plates also even if the water level is correct. Good Luck...