CRANKY ENGINE

Q:

I have a 1999 Boston Whaler with a 2010 Evinrude E-Tec 75 hp outboard motor. The motor will crank for about three seconds and then stops cranking. The motor runs well when it starts but often takes several attempts to start. I think if it would crank longer, it would start every time. The battery and starter motor are fine. I’ve never had a motor that will not crank as long as the ignition switch is engaged. Any ideas on why it only cranks for three seconds?

Ken Wright Redding, Connecticut

A:

Check and clean the VST filter. Additonally, check for spark when cranking by using a timing light. You also want to use a fuel-pressure gauge to confirm the lift pump’s operation, and make sure you have sufficient amperage; check batteries, battery cables, and connections at the battery and starter. (Enough juice to spin the starter can be less than optimal for actually starting the engine.) What might be happening is the engine almost starts, and that fools the starter motor, which then kicks out. Work on why the engine won’t start.