Intermitten Starting problems

[Dennis]

Hi All
I have a 2001 41 SR with Cat 3126's. I have a intermitten starting issue with the Port engine. More times than not the engine ultimately starts but I may have to engage the toggle switch at the helm multiple times before it fires up. What happens when I engage the starter switch is I get a single click which I assume is at the solenoid. I believe this is telling me that the problem is most likely the starter solenoid but I'm not sure. I have talked with SR service and basically have been told that there is really nothing they can do until I deliver the boat to them in a fault condition. This problem has existed for a couple of years but as stated above it normally starts after 2, 3 or 4 attempts. Last Saturday night I tried over 20 times and finally resolved myself to limping home on one engine. After successfully navigating the docks on one engine, no small feat as we all know I stopped and tried once again and the engine immediately started.
Any guidance on how to trouble shoot this would be much appreciated. I'm in over my head but unfortunately it's never failed when I'm at the SR dealer topping off.
Thanks in advance for any assistance.

 

[JC3]

Dennis, Start with the easyest(i dont think thats a word) fix first. Check your battery connections. Was in Chub Cay when that happened to us. Mech walking by yelled "check your battery connections". Sure enough that was it. There are a couple of old threads about this subject that you can search for. Lots of great people on CSR that will come along and help you. Please update your signature to what boat you have and your location.
Good Luck, JC

 

[Jaws]

After you've determined that the electrical power is sufficient, check the ground wire crimped lug on the starter relay (from experience).

Also if you don't get a start, have you tried jumping across the relay with a screwdriver to get the motor started? It's saved me a few times from limping home on one motor.

 

[Dennis]

JC3 / Jaws
Thanks for the replies I will definitely recheck connections. JAWS soundlike you have experienced similar scenarios hence the screwdriver jumper suggestion which I most definitely will try in the future. If it does start by jumping the solenoid does that absolutely confirm the problem?
Again thanks for your help. This site and its members have taught me alot already in regards to maintenance and trouble shooting just from reading other threads.
Thanks
Dennis

 

[becnme]

I had a the same problem with a 97 diesel powered 40 and there was a micro switch on the shift levers that failed. It has been years since I had this problem so I don't remember the specifics but if you remove the cover to the shift levers you will find a switch there (if it is the same design as my older 40). This was their version of a neutral safety switch.

 

[Jaws]

Dennis,

If you are able to start the motor by jumping it across the starter relay (the two large poles with the boots) then your starter is fine. The relay should be replaced which is a fairly simple job. Not sure how it is on the CATs but that's my experience with the Cummins.

When I first had the problem last year, the dealer replaced the starter (expensive) as the first item. That was because there was a loud click when trying to start, as if the Bendix was thrown. So the logical thing was to replace the starter. It worked for a month and then the relay switch went, no click. That's when I learned to start it with a screwdriver or jumper wire.

I'll be interested to hear what you find out. Keep us posted.

James

 

[Dennis]

Thanks JAWS I will post an update unfortunately the season is winding down in the midwest and I may not experience the fault condition until next season. Thanks however for the responses.