1996 OMC 7.4GL starter question. New Inboard Owner.

[Picknasty]

Hey guys, new to the forum and new inboard owner. I have been an outboard guy forever but I just bought a Whitewater 25 with a 1996 7.4GL in the center console, straight inboard setup, no outdrive.
I am having trouble knowing which starter to replace my current one with, the current starter is still working but it looks like it has spent the last 16 years in Afghanistan. I need to clean up the connections on the starter anyway so I thought it might be best to go ahead and replace the whole unit with it looking the way it does now. Thoughts?

So the recommended replacement starter is below and has a bolting pattern that is different than what is on the motor currently.

What I have currently is a Delco 19010615, the replacement from Arco is shown below

So my question is will my motor accept either one of these starters? I mean either the Arco 30457 (which is a direct replacement for my current Delco 19010615) or the Arco 30470 (which is a recommended replacment for my motor from marineengine). I appreciate any input you guys might have.

 

[alldodge]

Howdy

Not an OMC/VP expert but you cannot install a GM staggered pattern starter (top pic) in place where the flush mount motor was (bottom pic)

 

[bruceb58]

I didn't even know OMC did inboard only engines! Is the starter on the starboard side of the motor like a normal 7.4L? Looks like the picture shows it on the port side.

 

[wrench 3]

Most of the inboards put the starter on top of the bell housing opposite the engine. It's a way better location for servicing than underneath the engine with a boat underneath it.
That is why you have the Delco 19010615 instead of the standard starter. Even if you do still have a location for the M15 starter I'd stay with the installation that you have now.

 

[Picknasty]

Thanks for the replies guys.

The starter is mounted on the starboard side of the engine up top. As I was thinking through everything today I was wondering why the past owner would have changed the starter location. Then it hit me about keeping it higher up on the engine, away from any bilge water and also to be easier to service. I called over to Arco marine today and spoke with one of the guys. I think I'll end up going back with that top mount starter as well, the current starter will not be staying in too much longer!

 

[Picknasty]

I wanted to update this thread. Through talking to a buddy of mine today it seems that the reason for the different location for the starter is that it is a straight inboard and not the sterndrive. He said the sterndrive Cobra's had the staggered bolt starters that mounted to the underside while the inboard models have the starter moved up top. Anyway, something I didn't know. Thanks again for the feed back.