starter doesn't always disengage

[MASTER Brian]

I have noticed that my starter doesn't always seem to recoil back down. It hasn't happened on the water, just when dry cranking (lanyard pulled out) it on the trailer.

Since it hasn't happened out on the water, I haven't worried about it yet, but I worry, it's just a matter of time. Is there something I should replace to fix this? I noticed they seem to list replacement parts in the parts catalog. I try to keep the shaft lubed.

 

[F_R]

Re: starter doesn't always disengage

Are you saying you are not actullly starting the motor, just cranking it? If so, don't worry about it. The "kick" from the rapid acceleartion of the flywheel when it starts will kick the starter gear down.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: starter doesn't always disengage

The bendix should drop down regardless of whether the engine simply being cranked or not. Clean the spiral grooves the bendix rides up and down in. Do not use oil or grease on the shaft. It simply gums up and causes further sticking. Carb or brake cleaner works well for cleaning. Just don't use too much. A light spritz is all thats necessary.

 

[MASTER Brian]

Re: starter doesn't always disengage

Yes, just cranking it. Was doing spark tests, etc...

Silvertip, I wouldn't think it should matter either. I put grease on the shaft per the manual. Maybe that is what's causing the issue. I'll clean it off and see how that works.

Are you saying I don't want to put anything back on the shaft after cleaning it? What about an occasional spritz with silicone spray or WD-40. I like the silicone better, but keep both onboard!

 

[F_R]

Re: starter doesn't always disengage

For the pinion to drop down, one of two things needs to happen: Either the flywheel has to overrun the starter or the starter armature has to turn backwards. So, if everything simply stops moving, the pinion will stay engaged with the flywheel. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

 

[xtraham]

Re: starter doesn't always disengage

i give mine a shot of deep creep about 2 times a year never had a problem.......it's a 1976

 

[MASTER Brian]

Re: starter doesn't always disengage

Will do, thanks for all the advice! ...wonder why the manual says to grease it?

F R, I know what you are saying, but I'd also think the starters torque should allow it to be overrun. Of course, maybe it's just a mid-way thing, like you say as well!!

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: starter doesn't always disengage

I'm with F_R, perfectly normal. Especially if it bounces backwards a bit on it's last compression stroke rather than forwards. Starter's torque has nothing to do with it as it is off at the time.

Grease attracts too much dirt and is usually too gooey. I just use a little light oil.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: starter doesn't always disengage

Manuals are written by technical writers who are not typically engineers or mechanics. Therefore manual content is not always 100% accurate or applicable. Don't know if that's the case in this particular instance. If you feel the need to lubricate it, a shot of silcone spray or better yet, Tri-Flo which is a teflon-like spray would be my choice. Deep Creep is also a good choice.