1998 Merc outboard starter will spin but nut engage the flywheel. How can I test the starter,could it b a fuse

Question

1998 Merc outboard starter will spin but nut engage the flywheel. How can I test the starter,could it b a fuse

Answer 1

check the polarity of the battery terminals and cables, if  they are reversed swich them back and have another starter  on hand because that one is prone to death soon after

Answer 2

Could be the starter gear is stuck down like the other person said , Or you have the battery hooked up in reverse.

Answer 3

Your starter drive is faulty.  Putting any kind of lubricant on the drive is a temporary fix, will not last, and will generally let you down at the worst time.  Remove the starter, and take it and your ser# to a dealer to get the correct parts.

Answer 4

take cover off, look at the top bit that is supposed to engage with the flywheel. twist it by hand. it should come up as you turn it around one way. If it doesn't then it may be stuck and like mentioned before, just put some 3 in 1 oil on it.  

Answer 5

nope, if the fuse blows the starter motor don't spin.

Most likely cause:  battery not fully charged, or corrosion/loose connections.

2nd most likely cause:  dirty bendix -- couple drops light oil (I use 3in1 oil) on the threads.  Not too much, don't want it running down the shaft into the motor.  Grease will just attract dirt.  WD-40 is just wrong for this application.

3rd possible cause:  starter motor is wearing out -- not likely on one so young unless you grind it a lot.

Lubricating the bendix should be part of your regular preventive maintenance program.