Would you replace the starter motors?

LaRea

While my engines are out of the boat, I have an easy opportunity to replace the starter motors.  There's nothing wrong with them, but they are 14 years old.  On a fresh-water boat, what would you do:

1) Replace with OEM starters, $435 per set
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001HBURKO

2) Replace with aftermarket, $140 per set
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TPM7UTI

3) Do not mess with them

randy56

If you have ever replaced a starter, while being all pretzeled up in there I would change them. Had good luck with aftermarket.

YYZRC

I’m happy with my DB alternators and would not hesitate to replace my starters with DB. I would do it. 

https://www.dbelectrical.com/starters/marine-inboard/mercruiser-marine/

Liberty44140

I would definitely replace now if I were in your shoes. Good news that OEM is not that expensive but I’d certainly consider aftermarket. Have heard several people say good things about DB.

reneechris14

Definitely change Now. I did mine and they on top because of V drive. There's wrong with after market plus you will still have your original ones. Put them on the motor in the garage and it sounds like they spin better.

LaRea

Looks like DB doesn't offer a replacement for mine.  Any opinions on OEG Parts?  (Amazon's aftermarket provider)

Handymans342

Get them rebuilt

Dream_Inn

Wow, I might be the only one that would just continue using them?  I  will say, if you are replacing due to risk of failure, then why risk with anything but OEM?  I mean, you are replacing because you are thinking it may fail soon, right?  Then, for just a couple hundred more, know that you at least replaced with something as good as what is currently in there that lasted 14 years.  Hey, you asked for our 2 cents!👍

I've unfortunately had my engines out or moved too many times. My oil pans always look ok. I believe it's because I keep my bilge dry.  I know you do too.  That would have me believe the starters are probably doing ok too. If I  hadn't had my water pump leak and get brackish water all over my pulleys, they wouldn't have needed painted either...

aero3113

Replace with OEM . You will never have easy access like you do now. All the work you’ve been doing, why chance anything other then OEM.

LaRea

Guys, thanks for the feedback.  I guess I'll bite the bullet and get the OEMs.  I could probably dull the pain by selling my old ones on eBay.

@Dream_Inn - yes, replacing them is part of my continuing quest to manufacture good luck!  

Grahamu

I have both engines out but with only 630 hours on them I will keep the starters. Fresh water boat and no sign of corrosion or water damage on the engines. Probably would go with OEM if changing them.

mattie

Handymans342 said:

Get them rebuilt

Either new OEM or rebuild them.

They will haunt your brain - if you do nothing.

Handymans342

Get them rebuilt for less than the cost of 1 new one. 

bella-vita

I say if it ain’t broke don’t fix it,but when it does break I got a guy so it will be a easy fix for me lol

PickleRick

I would replace starters, keep old ones as spares for long trips


I'd replace with thesehttps://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=http://www.marineengine.com/boat-forum/showthread.php?420262-Gear-Reduction-Starter-Replacement-LM318-s&ved=2ahUKEwiQl6yar_jtAhWDmVkKHQF1DJcQFjAEegQICRAB&usg=AOvVaw2jKWyT1Umtvp-MZiA1iPY8&cshid=1609422887974

LaRea

@PickleRick - you mean API Marine?  What do you like about them?  

http://www.apimarine.com/marine-electrical/mercruiser-volvo-marine-power-50-863007a1-30433.html

RiverRat232

I am with the majority. Replace or have rebuilt. You'll kick yourself if you don't and one goes out shortly after reinstalling the engines. I would also consider replacing other components that are relatively cheap but are tough to get at with the engines in. On my boat, that would describe the bilge pump.

PickleRick

LaRea said:

@PickleRick - you mean API Marine?  What do you like about them?  

http://www.apimarine.com/marine-electrical/mercruiser-volvo-marine-power-50-863007a1-30433.html

More torque with less amp draw on the system paired with generally a beefier design compared to inline drive starters.  Heavier duty built components vs some nylon parts found in conventional starters.  Durability and starting rpms win me over. This was the starter i ran on my rinker.  

The link i sent you was to the marine engine forum, guys that build motors(marine in particular) for a living and/or a hobby so they don't generally have the same OEM bias many marine shops (dealers) have, some shops refuse to use or recommend parts that are not oem despite occasionally aftermarket suppliers have a superior product.  If those guys  would prefer these starters over oem on their personal boats, that says a lot about the performance and quality.  As someone who wenches for a living, i hate wrenching during boat time.   

Rather than just tell you about them I figured it would be better to link you to a forum where they know more about these motors than anyone I know.  

LaRea

@PickleRick I'm taking your suggestion and getting the API Marine starters.  $320 for the pair from CP Performance.  

PickleRick

Let us know if you can tell a difference in start up on those motors, especially on those cold spring mornings.  The price is great compared to oem.  They use these same starters at the race shop next to ours.  

Dream_Inn

Ok, I fully agree with going with Rick's suggestion.  Sounds worth the effort 

GMSLITHO

I originally thought no but for the 4320 if you went this far yes I would do it 

LaRea

I installed new API Marine starters, and grabbed two of their alternators as well.  

PickleRick

Are they stock rated alternators or higher amp? I know some of us are running pretty good sized stereo systems. 

LaRea

They are stock 70 amps, but I'd run the genny if I really needed lots of power.  

RiverRat232

After you get it done do you want to sell it? 

LaRea

@RiverRat232 this isn't my forever boat!  It'll go on the market at some point.  The day I sell it will NOT be one of those proverbial two happiest days.  But if I believe the talk at my marina, I won't have to list it!