outboard motor question/starting issues

[boneboy96]

The motor is a '84 Mercury 35 HP. Trying to get it started, turn the key and starter engages and cranks the engine over. Didn't start right off so turned the key off, but the starter kept right on cranking away. had to disconnect the positive lead off the battery to prevent burning up the starter. Any ideas? Defective key switch or bad starter or solenoid? How do I check it?

 

[Doyle]

I'd say starter switch. They are cheap and easy to replace.

 

[boneboy96]

anyone else?

 

[Randy8216]

i would guess the same spray a little wd-40 and work the key back and forth with the battery unhooked then try it again if that don't work replace

 

[fixit101]

sounds like the solenoid is staying pulled in. Try tapping on the solenoid and see if it will let go. you may have to tap it while not trying to start it for it to let go.

I think you can test it by checking continuity across the two terminals with the wires unhooked. should have no continuity with all wires off of it....