1999 Evinrude 70 Making an odd sound

[Lugnut]

The motor seems to be running well (new boat so not much experience with it yet) but I heard an odd sound on shut off today. Sounded like something kept spinning and it made a light "tock tock" sound until whatever was moving stopped.

Had a hard time starting it 20 minutes later. The starter would engage partially, crank the motor for a sec then somehow disengage from the flywheel and spin freely. The starter did that 3 times then engaged and started the motor properly.

Odd behavior.

After that motor ran like a champ but I was paranoid and not sure if I imagined odd noises or it really did make noises on the return trip...

I would GREATLY appreciate any suggestions from you fine folks!

Chuck

[Limey Linda]

Sounds like you have a worn or sticky bendix gear on your starter motor.

[Lugnut]

Originally Posted by Limey Linda

Sounds like you have a worn or sticky bendix gear on your starter motor.

Thanks I'll take a look tomorrow. Does this typically result in a worn/damaged flywheel as well?

[Limey Linda]

Originally Posted by Lugnut

Thanks I'll take a look tomorrow. Does this typically result in a worn/damaged flywheel as well?

Hopefully not if it is a recent problem. Inspect the teeth on the flywheel carefull. If there are significant burrs then you should change it.

[Lugnut]

Originally Posted by Limey Linda

Hopefully not if it is a recent problem. Inspect the teeth on the flywheel carefull. If there are significant burrs then you should change it.

Great thank you!

[Lugnut]

Hmm well...

I inspected the flywheel and it looks pristine. I can't duplicate the sound or symptoms either...

I don't like unexplained Gremlins. They tend to come back at the most inopportune times.

[Lugnut]

Originally Posted by Lugnut

Hmm well...

I inspected the flywheel and it looks pristine. I can't duplicate the sound or symptoms either...

I don't like unexplained Gremlins. They tend to come back at the most inopportune times.

I took a second look. The teeth are in excellent shape, but but on closer inspection it appears the bendix gear on the starter is only engaging the flywheel about half the length of the teeth. No damage to either set yet, but I can see how it might happen at a later date.

The starter is mounted correctly as far as I can see, no shims or anything. Does te bendix gear require lubrication?