Hi everyone, I was hoping maybe someone here could help me out.<br /><br />First, here's what I have: 1991 Regal Valanti 220XL bowrider I/O, with Mercruiser 5.7L V8 (260HP, Thunderbolt IV ignition), Alpha One outdrive.<br /><br />Used the boat last season and all was well, except that occasionally the starter would not crank, but only click. However, after a few tries it would turn over and the engine would start normally.<br /><br />Well, this year I'm getting ready for the season, and found that the starter will now ONLY click. If the key is left in the Start position for more than a few seconds, then I hear a hissing sound and a small amount of smoke/steam from the battery (after 4-5 seconds or so). After that, I don't hold it in Start anymore for longer than 1 sec at a time, to see if repeat clicks would make it turn. Appears to be high current flowing, so I am tempted to think it is not a solenoid. Even attached another battery in case there was not enough juice in the boat battery (which, by the way, was stored indoors for the winter and charged periodically with no problems). In doing maintenance, I replaced all the spark plugs and there didn't appear to be any water or anything else in the cylinders.<br /><br />My question is, do I still need ot check out the solenoids with a meter, or does the fact that there appears to be a high current flowing from the battery indicate that the starter is indeed getting power, and may be faulty?<br /><br />Thanks for your help!
