Mercruiser 496 MAG Won't Start

[kt_maxum]

Hi All,

I tried starting my engine today with no luck. Wondering if anyone has any advice on what to check. The engine is a 2003 496 MAG.

The engine "clicks" and starter appears to spin up but the engine isn't turning over. Here's a link to the youtube video with audio.

https://youtu.be/z5p2eh3Y9Q4

I've checked the batteries with a tester - voltage and CCA are all good. No corrosion on any of the wires from batteries or at the starter. The last engine start was about 2.5 months ago, so it's been sitting for a while (ran fuel stabilizer through it prior to storage in the fall).

Could it be a plugged fuel filter or fuel pump issues? Something with the spark plugs?

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!
Ken

[mmwjr]

I can hear the starter spin but weakly and the engine isn’t turning as you said. When you checked the battery voltage it needs to be while trying to start the engine and not just sitting at rest. If the voltage is good testing under starting load I would suspect a starter issue.

[kt_maxum]

Thanks very much - I did check the battery voltage under load while trying to start it. The voltage meter indicated the cranking test was good at 13.4v.

The last time I started it, it cranked for quite a while before kicking in so you're probably right that maybe the starter needs to be replaced.

[shrew]

Bad Starter Bendix??