Hey all,

I've been having some problems with my electric start. I can manually start the boat via the pull cord but the key start wont work. I have bought a new key switch and new solenoid but I still don't have any luck. I have been able to "jump start" the starter and get the motor going when I turn the key switch that way. I have tested my battery and the connections at the ground and solenoid. I have 12.80ish volts at the ground/positive side of the solenoid but nothing on the other side that connects to the starter itself. If this is confusing please let me know, I'm looking for any and all help.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

het Rick - might want to let us know what engine your working on. I had the same issue with a 18 hp vanguard and it was the starter itself

[quote="baron von"]het Rick - might want to let us know what engine your working on. I had the same issue with a 18 hp vanguard and it was the starter itself[/quote\

Sorry Baron,

Its a 2001 23 hp Vanguard. We can jump it with no problem, could that be what the issue is?

hey Rick - what are you "jumping" to get it to crank? If you are bypassing solenoid and jumping directly to starter - you might need to ground the solenoid better

I have noticed there is 2 kinds of solenoids on these engines - the 3 post that grounds directly to starter or whatever it is mounted on.

3 post.png

The 4 post solenoid which uses a seperate ground wire
4 post.png


1. Do you have a 3 post or 4 ?

2. Did you replace the solenoid with the same style that was on there?

3. If you have a 3 post, did you clean and sand off any corrosion on the area it mounts to – it is a L bracket on starter via a large hose clamp.

4. If you have a 4 post, is the ground lead connection good?

5. I have replaced the 3 post with a 4 post, just ran separate ground wire.

6. This is all assuming your wiring and switch are all good (as stated in first post)

7. Seek professional help if all else fails