I have a 1962 40-hp West Bend outboard that's run great for the past
few years. The last time we took it out, though, it suddenly refused
to crank, just complete silence. I assumed it was a loose wire
somewhere but couldn't find one.

Anyway, I followed the wires into the motor and just before they go
into the starter they go into and out of a little lump which I believe
is a solenoid. There is current going in but not coming out, even
when I crank it.

I take it to mean my solenoid's dead, but I really have no idea what
I'm doing so I thought I'd ask...

If it is, how closely do I have to match the part to replace it? Can
I go find any 12-volt marine starter solenoid?

cheers,

doug