Mercury Outboard Alternators

Mercury Outboard Starters

When your Mercury outboard hard starts or won’t start, before deciding it is a possibly expensive electrical repair, perform a few general troubleshooting tasks to make certain. Sometimes it is nothing more serious than oversight. First check that there is enough gas in the gas tank and that all fluids are at the right level. Next, make sure that all wires are connected properly.

If the engine will not start, there may be no spark present. Check that the spark plug for the engine is free of decay and is clean. If there is any water on the spark plug, check for leaks. Replace the spark plug and try starting the engine again. Sometimes it is the simplest of issues that prevent the engine from turning over.

If intermittently your Mercury Outboard is difficult to start, it is likely that the starter mechanism or solenoid is worn and requires replacement. To troubleshoot Mercury Outboard starters, here are some spot checks you can perform yourself:

Problem: Starter engages, but solenoid clicks

Troubleshoot by measuring the voltage at the starter terminal to battery ground using a voltage meter with the starter engaged.

• If 12 V, repair or replace starter and solenoid

Problem: Solenoid doesn’t click when starter key is turned.

Troubleshoot by measuring voltage at small solenoid terminal. If there are no volts registered, troubleshoot further by testing the kill switch to ensure it is connected, the battery, starter switch, and the controller neutral start switch. If up to 2 volts register, replace the solenoid.

Problem: Starter engages, but low voltage registers.

First remove and clean all connections on the battery-to-solenoid cable, battery-to-engine block cable and solenoid-to-starter cable. Inspect for corrosion and broken insulation. Replace as needed.

Next, troubleshoot by measuring the voltage at the battery terminals. If it is below 12.6 volts with all electrics turned off, recharge or replace the battery.

Also measure the battery voltage with the starter engaged. If it registers below 9 volts, recharge or replace the battery.

Replacement Parts for Mercury Outboard Starters

When troubleshooting indicates that new Mercury outboard starter components are required, know that Wholesale Marine carries a line of quality Sierra replacement parts including a selection of Starter Solenoids, Starter Drive Assemblies, Brush Kits, and Starter Gear.

Should you have questions regarding which solenoid is right for your boat, Wholesale Marine’s knowledgeable staff of boating enthusiasts will be glad to help. We offer a lowest price guarantee as well. Join our Loyalty Program and you’ll be able to use the points you accumulate today towards any future purchases. We offer flat rate shipping for $6.99. Just give us a call Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM EST at (877) 388-2628.