Johnson 30HP Starter trouble

[Roadkill]

This is my first post, I'm new to this board.

I have a 1987 30 hp johnson, with electric start. 11 teeth on the pinion gear. I just picked this boat and motor up last year. It was sitting quite a while I guess. Last year the pinion would pop up but was hesitant on turning the flywheel. Tried many things..brushes are in great shape..This year..it was still hesitant, then all of a sudden it started working great, it would spin that flywheel no problem. Today, it's back to the hesitation. The pinion pops up, but won't spin the flywheel, if I hold the key on, the starter gets hot..so, it's definately getting lots of juice. Oh yeah, brand new battery too. Would a rebuild on the starter be in order? or should I buy a new starter? $273 for a new one. Or is there something else the matter?

Any help would be appreciated

thanx
Dave

[rudetech1]

Check the battery cables. Replace them if needed. A brush can stick and cause this problem but it could also be a solenoid getting worn inside on the contacts.

[Bassmeister]

After checking the connections as Rudey said, You can get the starter rebuilt. I have auto electric guy here in my small town that does that and even has parts for Evinrude starters. I would also replace the solenoid just for grins!

[RUSTY63]

Does the starter spin but not the bendix?