Motor will not turn over?

[jonathanr]

Yesterday I thought I'd take the boat out to do some sight seeing and just warm the motor up and check everything out. When I put the boat in and tried to crank the motor it made a grunting type sound when turning the ignition key. It was a short sound both times and thought maybe the battery was down but the check guage showed a full charge and I had just charged them a day ago. Took the cables loose and tried a different battery.. same result. Finally after a few turns with the ignition key it fired right up. The sound was just like it had a dead battery, but it wasn't the battery so what could this be? I've heard of the bendix needing oiling every now and then... if so, how do I need to do this if this is the problem. thanks

[5 BASS LIMIT]

jonathanr , With all of the moisture in the air it coud be as simple as your key switch especially if you keep it outside. It could also be the starter solenoid going bad or you need to grease the starter bendix. To do this you have to rotate the bendix so that it goes up and grease the threaded area underneath. I STRONGLY that you disconnect the battery first to prevent any personal injury to yourself. Then use a light grease like high temp wheel bearing grease. They make a bendix grease but it does not work as well in my opinion. Let me know if I can be of any further assistance.