2001 Mercury Mariner 50-60HP Factory Service Manual, Page 112Get this manual
CHARGINGSTARTING SYSTEM
Starter Solenoid Test
1Inspect starter solenoid for cracks, loose terminals or loose terminal lead connections2Connect ohm meter between terminals of starter solenoid3Connect the BLACK lead from solenoid to battery negative () terminal and momentarily connect the BROWN lead to the positive (+) terminal of battery4Verify continuity between the starter solenoid terminals when 12 volts are applied