Starter Removal NOT GOOD

[bill]

I don't see it suggested but have you tried barring the engine over. The bendix maybe stuck in the flywheel teeth.
bill

[Maestro]

UPDATE: by some miracle, I was able to get the starter off. Took a lot of standing on my head and some really nice wobble socket extensions and a flex head socket wrench. Didn't have to cut holes.

I bench-tested the starter at home by hooking it up to a good strong battery. Just like when I tried in the boat, lots of sparks but the starter is still unresponsive.

Because I am paranoid (engine hydro-lock, etc.) I checked to make sure the engine turns as suggested by others. Once the starter was off, I very carefully took a large flat screwdriver and stuck it in the flywheel teeth and attempted to turn. It moved very easily.

As bizarre as it is for the thing to fail so suddenly - pretty sure it is now safe to say the starter is the problem.

[ukester]

looks like a long 3/8 extension and a swivel socket should get those bolts out-that is what I would try.

[Maestro]

The starter went to an auto-electric shop today to be tested. They said that apparently, a very small bolt/screw broke loose inside the starter and flew around in there and tore up all kinds of stuff. They can't even rebuild it.

I've already ordered an ARCO replacement starter from Jamestown Distributors. Will update again once I have that installed. Won't arrive in the mail until Friday or Saturday.

Many thanks for all the ideas and suggestions.

[jralbert]

Compliments to you for a good diagnosis and the skills/talent to do the hard work of removing the unit and getting it to the shop quickly. You and a (complex) boat are a good match.

[Maestro]

Dropped in the new starter last night and she fired right up.

[Fastjeff]

Outstanding!

Jeff