1986 johnson, 65hp starting problems

[Bluerivet]

Looking to buy this used motor, key/choke engages but the starter does not turn over at all. Any recommendations for troubleshooting procedure going forward?

[Rebel Sympathy]

Either you have a bad wire in your harness going back to the solenoid, or the soleniod is bad, or the starter is bad. A "click" sound would indicate the solenoid is working, but the starter is not.

I have been retired for 10 years. That stated, a 65hp 1986 motor sounds strange. I would expect either a 60hp or a 70hp, unless you are looking at perhaps a commercial motor. Otherwise, I'd say you are looking at an early 70's motor......