Start in Neutral Puzzler??

[Bob Bell]

The Owners Manual for my 1986 H40 says to place the transmission in neutral before starting the engine. I think this is a safety pre-caution (and a good one). I have owned other boats that "would not" start in-gear - because they had some sort of neutral safety switch installed. I sent Hunter an email and they told me that they didn't install neutral safety switches on my model and I have been unable to find one installed by previous owners.Now for the puzzler - sometimes my Hunter won't start - that is, I turn the key and get nothing - no clicking, nothing. When that happens, I wiggle the gear shift lever and really make sure it's in neutral and she fires right up. I can create this situation by placing her in-gear and trying to start her - she never starts. Shift to neutral - starts right up. any ideas?

 

[Paul]

Maybe just the Hunter Starting Blues?

I start my 336 in gear all the time. I try not to do it at the dock!There are about three other threads going on right now in this forum whose principal subject is "why doesn't my Hunter start when I turn the key/push the button?"It seems to be the universal Hunter problem. We all think it's electrical. Most of us believe it is due to the starter solenoid failing to engage. One owner is convinced it's a cable voltage-drop problem. Maybe he's right.Next time it doesn't start, just wait a sec and try again, without wiggling the gearshift. I'll bet it kicks over eventually.