Starter for Yamaha outboards
The starter (starter motor) is an electric motor that turns the outboard motor during the starting process. The starter pinion engages with the ring gear of the flywheel and sets the crankshaft in motion until the engine ignites and runs independently.
Outboard engines can be started either manually via a cable pull or electrically via a starter motor. With an electric start, the engine is activated via a start switch or ignition key and requires an external battery as an energy source.
Structure of the starting system
The starting system of a Yamaha outboard motor consists of several electrical and mechanical components:
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Starter motor
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Starter relay or magnetic switch
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battery
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Ignition switch or start button
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Electrical wiring
The starter relay or magnetic switch acts as an electrical switch that transfers the current from the battery to the starter motor.
Electric starter on Yamaha outboard engines
Many Yamaha outboard engines have an electric starter. This enables the engine to be started using the ignition key or a start button on the remote control. The starter motor generates enough torque to turn the engine over and initiate the combustion process.
Typical causes of starter problems
Problems in the starting system can manifest themselves through various symptoms:
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Engine does not turn over when starting
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Clicking noise when trying to start
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Slow spinning of the engine
Common causes are a weak battery, defective starter relays, damaged wiring or a worn starter motor.
Selecting the right starter motor
A suitable starter motor is selected using technical engine data:
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Yamaha engine series
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Engine power (hp)
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Year of manufacture
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Yamaha part number
Starters differ according to engine generation, size and electrical design.
