Starter problem with 21E

[Michaelo]

I have an issue with starting my 21E. To get the engine to turn over I have to hook up to shore power. This is necessary even though I seems to have plenty of power to use the lights, blow the horn, run the bilge etc. After running the engine for a while(up to 2 hrs) I can stop it, and restart without shore power if I do so within 10 minutes of stopping. Any longer that being stopped for ten minutes, I have to reconnect to shore power to restart.

 

[ThomasWest]

I don't believe this is a starter issue. Have you tested your batteries?

 

[Michaelo]

Thanks for your reply
All batteries except for the started one appear to be charging with the shore power . I wonder why battery No.1 is not doing so.

 

[knotflying]

Do a load test. Sounds like it may not be holding a charge.

 

[Brunski]

Could also be something as simple as a cable/connection issue. Remove starter battery connectors, clean, and re-connect. If using wing nuts replace with hex nut and use proper socket wrench, not pliers. Tighten carefully to proper torque specs - finger tight wing nuts are just not tight enough. Make sure starter cable is firmly down against base of battery terminal, absolutely no washer in between. Washer then lock washer go on top of cable, then nut. Use good battery grease to minimize corrosion issues. If no lock washer get some, vibration will loosen connector over time, or use Nyloc nut instead. (Nyloc nut safe to use, battery case will melt before nylon in nut softens).