New(To Me) Boat, Little Motor Guidance

[Ripper34]

So I just made a deal and got back in the fishing world. Purchased a 1975 Boat(Venture), Motor(Merc 85hp), and trailer. I am super excited but I know the combo will need some work and money before I am fishing.

The guy I bought the combo from said that the motore needed a new starter solinoid. So I got one and installed it this weekend. It is a 4 prong part, and installed it and now the starter will spin, but not engage with the gears. I am to my next project now. Anyone have any suggestions prior to me putting it in the shop?

[Dutch]

I'd try something like WD40 on the bendix. I used to have a RUDE that would get contrary and have to be lubed a bit to spin and engage.

[fishinwrench]

You either have a low/or bad battery, a voltage loss between the battery and the starter, or a bad starter. If you have a digital voltmeter on hand I can talk you through the troubleshooting.

Hang on to that old solenoid, they are easily overhauled... could have saved you 37.90