Thanks, all. I’ll calm down and be a little more diagnostic now! I was just angry that the minnows died and I never even went fishing!
Clearly the first step is to lube the starter shaft. Honestly, the battery is old. It likely doesn’t have the cranking capacity, even though it “works.” Along with a couple drops of oil on the starter, I’ll also replace the battery. I have a jump pack so that will be easy first steps.
It’s not the newest motor, but so common for so many years that parts are not difficult. I found a starter motor for $50 if I have to go that far.
Clearly the first step is to lube the starter shaft. Honestly, the battery is old. It likely doesn’t have the cranking capacity, even though it “works.” Along with a couple drops of oil on the starter, I’ll also replace the battery. I have a jump pack so that will be easy first steps.
It’s not the newest motor, but so common for so many years that parts are not difficult. I found a starter motor for $50 if I have to go that far.