Boat starting issue

[toddh]

My boat is sometimes not starting when I turn the key. It doesn't click or make any sound at all. After trying to turn the key several times it fires up. Like it's not making contact sometimes. 5.7 mercruiser. Any suggestions on what to check? I am going on a long trip next weekend and don't want any issues.

 

[Mike Blake]

Check and clean the battery terminals. Shifter in neutral?

 

[toddh]

Shifter is in neutral. What about the starter terminals?

 

[Lazy Daze]

Remove, clean, reinstall ALL battery and electrical connections. If one is giving you a problem, others may not be far behind. Besides, it's good PM. Key switch, battery posts, starter, engine ground, etc.

Forgot to mention... if it's still giving you problems after cleaning, then it could simply be a flaky key switch. They're inexpensive if you just want to change it out, but you can also test by jump starting.