1978 Johnson 55 HP Outboards Service Manual, Page 104Get this manual
Figure 7-14Testing Solenoid eDO NOT clean the starter drive assembly while the starter motor and drive are installed on the power headThe cleaning agent will drain into the starter motor, washing dirt from the drive into the starter bearings, commutator, etcAfter disassembling the drive, clean each part with grease solvent and inspect for wear or distortionfIf the pinion does not properly engage the flywheel, the pinion and screw shaft assembly may be worn, distorted, or dirtyLocate cause of binding and correct before completing assemblygThe starter solenoid is sealed unit and is serviced only as an assemblyTo test the solenoid, disconnect leads to solenoid terminalsConnect an ohmmeter set to low ohm scale between terminals and BConnect 12 volt supply between terminals and DSee Figure 7-14Solenoid plunger should give an audible click and ohmmeter should read zero ohms Figure 7-11Checking for Grounding dUsing test light, check field windings for continuity between field brush lead and frame of motor (ground)See Figure 7-12Check permanent magnetsSee Figure 7-13