My 1996 Johnson 115 Ocean Runner was getting tougher and tougher to start at the beginning of the day, then would start fine the rest of the day. After poking around the web I decided to replace my battery cables as a “cheaper” 1st move than replacing the starter. I upgraded to 2 gauge cable ($100 from West Marine) and it did start a little better, but still not great. I also tested the solenoid, cleaned all the connections…basically did everything except replace the starter. Still struggled so I decided to replace the starter motor itself. OEM was $200, I found a brand new aftermarket one for $65 from DB Electrical. Also bought a new solenoid for $15 cuz I figured as long as I was in there go ahead and knock it all out. I am extraordinarly average as a mechanic, took me all afternoon but I finished it and now it starts like a champ! Have taken it on 3 trips since and I’m loving it. The starter I took off was dated 4/26/1996 so was original. I took it apart and it was loaded up with shavings and dust. Worked for almost 20 years, it had done it’s job.
In hindsight I wish I would have replaced the starter to begin with. Would have saved me a lot of time and saved me the $100 on the new cables. Quality of the starter looked good, fit perfectly, delivery was prompt and price was great. Just wanted to share the experience for all the other backyard mechanics out there.