ignition click

[2impulsive]

Qr Bbpost While the batteries are obviously getting weak, what position is your battery switch in? 1, 2 or both?

I have tried both positions 1 and 2. It seems to happen with both engines. The clicking sound is coming from the Starter Slave Solenoid, which suggests that it is working but the current isn't getting to the Starter Solenoid. I am in the process of checking all the connections and will let you know the results. Thanks for your suggestions.

[Viper]

If the slave solenoid is clicking, it indicates that the control side works but doesn't guaranty that the load side is working. Check the solenoid with a volt meter to see if there is 12 volts on the side leading to the starter when the key is turned to the start position. If you don't get 12 volts there, replace the solenoid. This is a common failure.

[2impulsive]

Thank you all for your suggestions.
In response to your questions, I have tried positions 1 and 2 on the battery switch and the clicking sound happens once each time the key is turned (on both engines), it's not a continuous clicking sound.
I am in the process of cleaning the contacts that have been suggested and will let you know the results.

[VicB]

I actually had this happen on a truck. The contacts, that look like a half moon inside the starting solenoid were made from copper and were so worn from the round plunger that they could not handle the amperage the starter demanded. 10 dollars from Auto Zone for new solenoid stationary contacts and it was just like new.

[2impulsive]

I have decided to change the slave solenoid on both engines in the Spring of next year, before the boat goes back in the water. Thanks again for all your suggestions.

[bud37]

I agree with VicB.......I had the same thing with the mercruiser part, got new all Ok, but decided to take the old one carefully apart...there was corrosion on the contact plate, cleaned it and was ok to go for a spare....so for anyone stuck, they can be Macgyvered....

[bellhouse1]

You probably have this fixed by now but you have exactly described the problem I had with my Riviera. There is something called a slave solenoid mounted on the front top of the motor. Replacing these at a cost of about $30 a side should solve the problem. It's a quick fix too, just a few minutes and easy to get at.

[George D]

I had a clicking issue on starboard engine. Would crank, not start, then click and then nothing. Was loose/bad/corroded connection on starter solenoid

[2impulsive]

It was the slave solenoids, I replaced them when the boat was out of the water in January 2019 and it's been running great since then. Thanks to all who replied especially "Viper".

[2impulsive]

It was the slave solenoids, I replaced them when the boat was out of the water in January 2019 and it's been running great since then. Thanks to all who replied especially "Viper".