Starter problems 720 XP

[Matthew Sean]

I need some advice. I rebuilt a top end on a 1995 720 xp and the starter turns over intermittently. I have a new battery, the ground and positive wires were sanded down and tightened, I just installed a new electric box off e-bay because my MPEM was not working. The problem was the same with the old box and I thought maybe it was a faulty coil, but the problem is still there. I turn over the motor without the plugs and there isn't any problem. I put in the plugs and it works every other time. For instance, it turns over slow, then fast, sometimes starts, but won't turn over again. Then 5 minutes after, it turns over well with the plugs in. Could this only mean my starter is defective? Is there another test or cleaning I could try before ordering a starter?

 

[kicker]

You could have a corroded cable, sometimes they will rot on the inside, usually the ground. You can try running another ground cable and see if it helps, but to be honest I am guessing your starter is giving out.

You can test the positive cable by measuring the volts at the battery while turning over, it should not be less then 11v ish while under load. Then do the same test on the positive of the starter, if there is significant drop in volts between the battery and starter reading, it will be your positive cable.

 

[Crofoot50]

My GSI had similar symptons and I had to replace the starter, that fixed it

 

[Matt Braley]

The solenoids in these things fail all the time. It is more unlikely that it's your problem if the one in each E-box acted the same. You can cross it with a screwdriver across the two top posts and see how it spins. If it spins well every time with the plugs in then your starter and cables should be OK.

 

[Matthew Sean]

I'll do the tests and see what's what. Is an original OEM starter a must?

 

[Coastiejoe]

I'll do the tests and see what's what. Is an original OEM starter a must?

If you go the way of a starter, OEM is the way to go. They are not cheap, but they work. Most aftermarkets fail within a month or so.

You can buy a cheap kit and rebuild your OEM starter.it is the most affordable way to go.

 

[Matthew Sean]

Well everyone, turns out my new battery was the problem. I gave it another 12 hour charge and now the starter turns-over every time. Thanks everone, the forum is truly helpful and has reassured me numerous times during my rebuild project. Now it's time to try out the ski.