issue starting after running for awhile???

[nightimefishn]

I have been having an issue lately with my Merc 115 O/B when I am full throttle for lets say 10 - 15 minutes or so I stop to fish for a bit and if I need to change spots quickly when I try to start her up she doesnt start. I just hear a tick tick tick tick when trying to start. (missed an awesome Blitz the other day) If I wait a few minutes (5 sometimes longer) she turns right over. I am new to boating and am wondering if some of you gurus can point me in the right direction.
It is almost like the starter isnt working while it is hot... Could this be the issue?

Thanks for any advice.

 

[emilime75]

Re: issue starting after running for awhile???

You're thinking in the right direction, something is getting hot and won't operate until it has cooled off. This could be several things. My first choice to inspect would be the starter, it is not uncommon for a starter to get "heat soaked" and it will not turn until it has cooled off. Is your temp warning buzzer working, I doubt this is happening because you would have other problems, but is the motor itself possibly overheating and causing it to temporarily lock up...like I said, I really don't think this is it, but you never know. The third possibility would be the battery, if you charging system is putting out a high voltage it could be overheating the battery, but this too is unlikely. And the fourth item I would check is the battery and starter wiring, including the grounds. Make sure they are all clean, and the connections tight. Also make sure the harness isn't falling apart from corrosion. You didn't mention the age of your outboard, but on older outboards this is a common failure

So, to recap. Starter heat soak is my first suspect. Battery/starter wiring and grounds are my second.

Good luck. Hope this helps.

 

[nightimefishn]

Re: issue starting after running for awhile???

Thanks so much for the advice. This forum really is awesome.
So I think I have found the culprit. In the below photos notice the yel;low wire. It looks pretty fried and nasty. I am going to replace later when I get home from work. Probably will not get out until Wed or Thursday but will know then.

I am not sure what this wire is hooked up to though. As I said I am new to boating and could use some help identifying. I am assuming it is the starter solenoid but am not sure.

Thanks again for the advice.