Starter Won't Engage Will Rope Pull Work

[Knottymate]

Have a 1999 150 HP Merc XR6. Noticed on last few starts starter whine (not engaging flywheel) but, generally would work

to start engine. Now, only get whine noise. Long way to tow to boat ramp. In wet slip but, just to nervous to try starter replacement there.

Is there any hope the rope pull would work. Any tips how to make easier. The ignition needs to be on position correct? and probably at someone at the key able to push key to help priming if there is an initial start?

 

[racerone]

Perhaps take battery in for a load test.----Yes you can start it with a rope.----Squirt some mixed fuel into the carburetors.----Turn key on and pull the rope.

 

[QBhoy]

No way will you start that engine with a rope. Sorry.
Youd need a powerful drill on the flywheel nut but I don’t recommend it.
Maybe just get the starter fixed.

 

[Dukedog]

Perhaps take battery in for a load test.----Yes you can start it with a rope.----Squirt some mixed fuel into the carburetors.----Turn key on and pull the rope.

this..
started several merc V6's over tha years this way.. jus takes two people..

 

[Faztbullet]

I have did it once by myself, broke front air cover with my foot.

 

[Chris1956]

Is the bendix gear engaging the flywheel? If not, remove the gear and clean the shaft it rides on. If that doesn't do it, it is likely either bad electrical connections or a bad starter.