Trouble shooting help

[fishsmith]

Motor: 1989 Johnson 150Hp
Boat: 21ft Privateer w/ cuddy

Scenerio:
Ran the boat 1 hr at 4100 rpms (22kts)
Stopped and fished for 2 hrs
ran a couple of miles to another fihing ground
fished 2 more hours
Ran back to the home port at 4000rpms (19kts)
as soon as we cleared the breakwater and began to slow the boat, the engine raced (as if it were in neutral) then died.
I was able to start it again for a few seconds and it died again.
Now when I try to start the engine there is no attempt to crank, it just clicks.

I know the battery is good.
My guess right now is the starter, but any and all input would be greatly appreciated. Let me know if I can provide any more detail.

[JohnR]

Is it a hard "THUNK" or a light "click"? Did it die the last time when you put it in gear?

[fishsmith]

it is a light click when I try to start the motor.
yes it did die the last time I put it in gear.

Thanks for the response.

[Fishpart]

Haven't played with outboards much, but maybe came out of gear somehow as you slowed down and there is an interlock tripped that won't let the starter crank? Sorry I can't offer any more suggestions other than basic trouble shooting.

Can you turn the motor over by hand? (much easier with the plugs out)? If you shift it into gear does the prop turn as you turn it by hand? Is it possible the engine dying and the not cranking are not related?

[JohnR]

Check your lower unit for gear oil or damage. It sounds like it may have siezed - I've had that happen before on an outdrive. A light click usually indicates starter but your description of racing, slowing down, & cutting out when going into gear sound like lower unit mechanical failure....

[fishsmith]

thanks again for the responses, I'll post again when the problem is solved. At least we caught the fish and then the boat died in the harbor.

Well the motor is Dead
The lower unit was seized and the motor as a whole had little life left in it.

A rebuilt will be taking its place shortly.