Bendix/ Starter Problem?

[ColoradoFourWheeler]

I’m just finally able to try to start the new (to me) 62 Mercury 700 and the bendix is just spinning and not engaging the engine. I’ve read this is somewhat common and that the starter may need to be disassembled and the bendix lubricated. What I’m not sure of, before I go down this path, is what direction the bendix should spin. It is currently turning counter-clockwise and about once every 10 attempt the bendix will lift to the flywheel but doesn’t actually start the motor, it lifts and then stops.

Sounds like the starter might be bad. Any suggestions of things to try before I go that route? I’ve got 12.4 volts on my new battery and it’s rated for 550 CCA (https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c/marine/battery-accessories/deep-cycle—marine-batteries/220f7dcd7121/super-start-marine-battery-group-size-24/ssbb/24dcmj).

• This topic was modified 4 years, 4 months ago by ColoradoFourWheeler.
• This topic was modified 4 years, 4 months ago by ColoradoFourWheeler.

[Tubs]

New battery should be around 12.5 volts, however you
have been playing around with it some. Your Battery sounds OK.
Could be the starter but you want to do the free stuff first.
Disconnect the battery and clean all the connections in
the system well. That would include the battery cable
connection’s as well if you haven’t done them already.
Could be just a dirty connection and the starter isn’t
getting all 12 volts.
Tubs

A "Boathouse Repair" is one thats done without having tools or the skills to do it properly.

[lindy46]

Counter clockwise is correct. Add a few drops of 3in1 oil and see if that helps.

[dave-bernard]

Starter may need to be cleaned and lubed.

[ColoradoFourWheeler]

Thank you for the suggestions. I’m topping the battery off in case it got low in the testing and I’ll go through and clean all the contacts, put a bit of 3 in 1 on the bendix and if all else fails, off it comes for a teardown. I don’t have too much choice, these starters can’t be found anywhere apparently, I’ve looked all over.

[dave-bernard]

Call me 1 914 310 7086 Dave

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