Slow engine cranking - one engine

[weave]

2010 Challenger 210

So being new to this vessel, I am deeply perplexed why it is, no matter the battery charge level, that the right motor spins and starts way faster than the left. The right motor reminds me of a car with a good battery....spin and start. The left reminds me of a car with a weak battery; it cranks slow, sounds like it is struggling, then it finally starts. There are no other symptoms of an issue; no smoke after started, no funny noises, etc.

I replaced the starter solenoid for the left motor but that had little effect. I have checked all the grounds I can find, and the positive cable on the starter for tightness.

I am inclined to replace the starter itself since the Jet Ski was acting similar last year (except it had smoke coming from the starter) but don't want to waste time and money if there are other causes.

So, is this normal? if not, any ideas what to check next?

Thanks

 

[JPass]

sounds like the starter is going bad. You could always test it out by swapping the 2.

 

[Eclipse1701d]

Is there a difference between when you try to start cold as opposed to hot? In my previous experience, with this issue, the aging starter will turn the engine easy when cold, then after use, the starter will turn much more slowly. The only other issue that will cause a slow start, is if you are experiencing hydrolock, from a bad exhaust manifold. This is where steam is backing up into the engine, and causing a slow/non-start scenario.