Starter Problems

[tbonemalibu]

I know this has been asked a lot but looking to see what everyone thinks. Batteries are brand new blue tops and are charged fully. Boat has been not starting like it did when I put the new starter on a couple of years ago. This past weekend it started fine drove around and turned it off. Went to start it and nothing happened. After making sure all the connections were good and tight I proceeded to tap the starter and it started up. I know usually with a car its time for a new starter but being only 2 maybe 3 years old does a new one go bad that quick? It was hot from me turning the key. My guess is it is time. Just seeing if anyone thinks it could be something different.

[wedge88]

I replaced the starter on my last superduty and within a month, I went through 2 more.  Remanufactured parts aren't what they used to be but warranty covered them and never had an issue after that.  Had a similar thing happen with an alternator.  It's no different with a boat.  Buy a starter and if it fixes it you're done and if not, you have a spare.

[Falko]

IF you tapped it and it went, it's most likely bad. 

[BlackBluMalibu]

If you have a local alternator/starter shop, they should be able to rebuild it relatively inexpensively. Sounds like a stuck solenoid.  May be able to clean it, lube it and put it back together and get more mileage on it.  However in today’s environment, you can put new on it for almost same price.  Have fun and safe boating!