Mercury starting

[Getrdun]

She started normal a few times during the day but wouldn’t start to load on trailer. Got home and found the starter Bendix and flywheel were tooth to tooth and not meshed. I turned the Bendix and it fell into place and I unplugged the plug wires and turned it over and it seems ok. There is a handful of teeth on the bottom or Bendix side that are a little boogered up and was wondering if anyone has had this happen and how serious of a problem could this be. The motor is 20 years old and runs great. Thanks for any and all information

 

[Davidaz]

I have a 1995 125 mariner this has happened to a couple of times it seems to happen when my battery is week I give it good charge and the starter would fall back in place. I don’t if this helps you in anyway. One time it happened and I had to buy a new battery.

 

[mechanicman]

With the plugs in. Does it turn over normal. Or is it struggling to turn it

 

[flyingscott]

Is the starter tight?

 

[Getrdun]

Battery could have been weak I guess but it started fine a couple other times that same morning

 

[Getrdun]

Seemed fine when I got it home and see What is going on and I’ve got it back in

 

[Getrdun]

Yeah it’s tight

 

[racerone]

Take starter apart for inspection / cleaning / greasing bushings / new brushes.-----Easy to do.