motor won't engage to pull starter.

[djsmitty88]

I have a 35 hp Merc that has electric and pull start. The motor turns over with the electric start but when I pull the lanyard it doesn't even engage. I just bought the boat/motor and have been fixing up the boat. Now it's the motor that I need to figure out. Any help would be greatly appreciated!<br /><br />------------------<br />Smitty

 

[JB]

Re: motor won't engage to pull starter.

Hi, Smitty. A common problem with dual-start engines. From lack of use the dogs in the recoil starter get gummed (EZ fix) or corroded (harder, but fixable) in place. Pull the cover and , if you can see into the works of the pull starter giv 'er some WD40 and work your rope in and out to see if they come loose. You may have to remove it to get into the innards. Don't start to disassemble it unless you are prepared to have the spring fly out like an irritated rattler. Getting it back in is easier than getting toothpaste back into the tube, but not much.<br /><br />Good luck.<br />JB

 

[djsmitty88]

Re: motor won't engage to pull starter.

Thanks JB! It sounds like WD-40 is still the wonder tool it was before when I used to use it. I hope I don't have to take the innards out because that spring doesn't sound like a whole lot of fun. Thanks again.<br /><br />------------------<br />Smitty

 

[12Footer]

Re: motor won't engage to pull starter.

That's the best description of them things I EVER read,J.B.!!<br />ROFLMAO