What's the problem?

[Ragin'Cajun]

I have a Mariner Magnum that came on my 1986 Cajun Fishing Machine. When I try to start it the starter only engages every 1 out of 3-5 times. I really don't need my batteries to die mid water so I'd love to fix this issue.

 

[papyson]

''starter only engages every 1 out of 3-5 times.''

when you say engages does the starter turn and not engage or never even turn on the failure?

can you hear the solenoid pick if its a no turn failure?

is your battery fully charged and reads 12.7 with no load?

what is the voltage reading on the positive post of the starter when it fails?