Yanmar 2GMF

[zachduckworth]

Hi everyone,

I’m trying to head off an issue with my Yanmar 2GMF. Both myself and the PO noticed a tendency of the engine to start on the second or third push. It always starts after two or three pushes without fail. When it doesn’t start there is a click sound from the engine. I haven’t done any multimeter investigation yet. I was wondering if this is a known issue and what I should do to trouble shoot it before I start pulling things. Thanks!

[hugosalt]

Some of the Yanmar GM motors suffered from issue your describing . (Sometimes
mimicking a bad starter) Was easily resolved by installing a relay (inexpensive
from auto supply house). There is much written/discussed here on CF and on other forums. Search "Yanmar GM starting problems cruisersforum" or similiar on google.
Haven't seen it come up lately, so thinking years old threads.
Did install on my 3GM many years ago and haven't had an issue since.
Don't recall if heard clicking sound or not.

[hugosalt]

Read your post again.
Are you saying motor does not turn over at all 1st or 2nd time?
(possible remedy as I described above.)
...or is motor turning over and not catching 1st or 2nd time?

[Gary Mc]

Hi, I have a 2GMF that does exactly the same thing. It always starts on the third push.
It is because the starting current for the starter goes through he start button and the undersized wire that goes down to the starter. This is not always enough to pull in the starter.

The fix is an automotive relay where the 12 volts from the start button pulls in the relay. The relay contact closes on the 12 volts from the battery, that is supplied from a larger gauge conductor.

I have a electrical back ground and can fix this easily but have not gotten around to it since it always starts on the third try.