Troubleshooting Cranking Issue

1999 Searay 180BR

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 23, 2006
Messages
43
Sometimes, but not always, when I turn the key to crank the boat nothing happens.
It may turn over fine on the next key turn or I may have to turn the key 20 times before it will turn over.
When it fails to turn over, there is absolutely no indication (clicks) that anything is happening.
I replaced the switch and cleaned up all the connections at the starter but it still happens randomly. The only thing left is the solenoid. All the connections there look good and are tight. And in my experience (lawnmowers mainly) when a solenoid fails you get an audible click when the key is turned.
Should I just replace the solenoid? Should I try to disassemble and clean the solenoid? Is the solenoid universal, meaning can I get one at AutoZone?
Thanks...
 

achris

More fish than mountain goat
Joined
May 19, 2004
Messages
27,468
Replaced the keyswitch and checked the connections on the starter motor... There's few spots in between you have missed..
1. Main instrument harness connector on the engine (10 pin 'Canon' connector)
2. Neutral safety switch in the control box. Next time it does it, try holding the key on START and wriggling the gear shifter.
3. Bad ground somewhere for the solenoid.

When it happens, do the instruments start alive or do they 'drop dead' at the same time?

You can't use a car solenoid. Being electrical, it needs to be J1171 certified.

Chris..........
 

BudL1te

Seaman
Joined
Jun 8, 2012
Messages
63
I had the same issue last year, Turned out to be the main connector Chris mentioned. It was plugged in and taped up and when I took it apart, the connectors were black so it was not getting a good connection. I unplugged the battery, took a brush and pick and cleaned the connector on both sides. Been good ever since.
 

1999 Searay 180BR

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 23, 2006
Messages
43
What about a pic or a diagram showing the location of this connector...or just tell me about where it's located... Thx
 

1999 Searay 180BR

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 23, 2006
Messages
43
OK, so I located that plug, loosened the worm-gear clamp and separated the two halves. The pins inside look to be straight-from-the-factory new. Absolutely zero sign of any corrosion or outside contamination....
 
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