Starter spontaneously starts cranking. Volvo Penta GXi 8.1 L 2008

[ni7irs]

I shut down today and heard a clanking. Opened engine compartment and engine was “running” but with a huge knock. This engine doesn’t have keys. There are switches on the panel that energize them and then the starter switch is at the helm. I confirmed the start switch was in the off position. When I de-energized the switch at the main panel he engine stopped. I again switched the energizing switch on and shortly thereafter the engine again started cranking.
Any ideas on what this can be? Is there a danger the starter may engage while he engine is actually running?

 

[muc]

You didn’t post a serial number so I can’t tell you if the starter can engage while the engine is running.

I would test the dash switch.

 

[ni7irs]

You didn’t post a serial number so I can’t tell you if the starter can engage while the engine is running.

I would test the dash switch.

Serial Numbers: 4012220165 Thank you!

 

[muc]

on your engine the starter can engage while the engine is running.
Also noticed that this engine has never been registered, suggest you contact a Volvo Penta dealer and get it registered in your name.

 

[ni7irs]

on your engine the starter can engage while the engine is running.
Also noticed that this engine has never been registered, suggest you contact a Volvo Penta dealer and get it registered in your name.

Wow. Thank you for the info! Ive purchased some relays and a new starter as I’m sure the existing one is life limited now