Odd problems with starting...

[Abatt2006]

It's just so damn strange/frustrating that it starts up like a champ when cold, but as soon as it gets up to temp there's an issue.

[cpropes2005]

I had a similar issue recently as well. In the boat the starter would just free spin but never engage the flywheel. I took the starter off and bench tested and it spun like a champ and popped the gear out like it should. This starter was also only a couple of months old so I took it back to the shop I bought it from and they bench tested it as well and said it was good to go. I figured it was a new starter and it tested good for two different people so I put it back in the boat and still had the same issue. Finally, I decided it couldn't be anything but the starter so I bought a new one in and that solved the problem. I took the old one apart and discovered that the outer ring gear was plastic and stripped. I still have it and will try to get a picture when I get home. Yours is interesting that it will start when it is cold but maybe the gear has just enough teeth left to grab before the added heat causes it to expand slightly?

[Abatt2006]

This is literally the third starter to do this, so I know it's not the starter, and since I just replaced the solenoid it can't possibly be that either.

[boatwakes]

Abatt, have you recently replaced the starter, i.e. since you first posted here? Cpropes is right, there's a plastic shim inside that strips out and will cause this issue. FYI EVERYONE READING THIS, the solenoid is located on the top of the starter and usually costs more than a new starter plus you have to remove the starter to change it anyway, they rarely if ever go bad. Here is a link to inexpensive marine starters https://www.dbelectrical.com/c-2855-57-liter.aspx. We use them all the time and install in customers boats weekly. $55 starter

[Abatt2006]

I literally replaced it on Monday along with solenoid and alternator.

[Abatt2006]

It's the freggin neutral safety switch on the tranny, bypassing it tomorrow, replacing it when I get the part.... Effing 30 dollar part caused me so much trouble...

[Abatt2006]

It did the same thing today, just bridged the connection with a screwdriver and it fired right the hell up. I'm happy, I'm pissed, I'm relieved, I'm in a glass cage of emotion!!!!!! /Ron Burgandy

[wired1236]

Odd problems with starting...

I just had sort if the same issue. Replaced my starter too. Then I thought it was the neutral switch but then thought to make sure the shifter cable was spot on perfect in neutral and it was just a hair off. Adjusted it by turning the ball on the end of the cable near the tranny just a few turns, 3 min job, and it hasn't acted up since. No cost fix. The switch is so simple I just couldn't believe it could have gone bad. Even took it out and tested it. It was fine.

[Wakesurfection]

Hi wired1236

Where is the ball located on the cable near the tranny? Is this the throttle cable. Do you have any pictures you can post of the location of the ball.

Many thanks

[wired1236]

The ball is right on top of the tranny and hooks to the lever on it. It looks like the throttle cable. I'll get a pic for u. It was definitely my issue as I still have not had a problem after dozens of starts.

[wired1236]

Here is the pic. It's right between my filter and the dipstick.