I have an 01 225 optimax. Have had it for 7 years with minimal problems, but here lately when I go out and try to start it, it will turn over 3-4 turns then stop (battery is hot). I turn key off, put it in gear and walk back to prop and spin till it stops(only spins 1/8 round if that), go back and put it in neutral and it will start right up. Haven't run it like this down the lake just trying it at the ramp. My question is has this happened to anyone else before I take it to my mechanic and was it an easy fix if so. Man I hope my L.U. isn't going out. Thanks!!

Any help greatly appreciated! !

Sounds like a neutral safety switch

Thanks j.

Justin sure does know all about the Mercury. He is trained and works for one of the best Mercury mechanics around ( Joe Mauldin )
Those 2 guys will treat you fair for sure. Had them replace my power head on my mercury several months ago.
Best 2 mechanics in my book. We'll worth the drive to Hallsville Tx to have them look at it.
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When the starter fails, check for power at the starter when you turn the key. That's where I would start with the troubleshooting. Electrical problems can be tough. You may remove the starter and have it tested. As Justin mentioned, the symptoms you describe could be the neutral safety switch.

Hot battery says bad solenoid.
In gear then out says nuetral safety switch.
If you have muffs to run it at home use them and while turning the key move the shifter, if it starts it is the switch. If not then go touch the solenoid and see if it is real hot.
Solenoid is just an electromagnet switch and they do go bad.

Neutral safety switch simply because you can move the control and it starts.

took it out today and ran fine. still going to get it looked at.

This

Neutral switch.