1998 Mercury 40 hp outboard convert from pull to elec. start?

[newbie38]

I just bought a 1998 Mercury 40 hp outboard (serial # 0G660803, model 40M?) that is currently pull start only. I want to convert to elec. start as economically as possible. I know Mercury sells a conversion kit for about $400, but since I bought the motor for $1100 can't really justify spending that. It seems to me that if I get a starter, solenoid, and push button start, it should be a pretty straightforward prospect to do. Am I correct? Is that model already set for for charging system (I assume not)? If not, I would be ok with running the starter with no recharge setup, recognizing that I will need to regularly charge the battery. I should add that the existing motor already has the flywheel setup for accepting the starter.

Any help/tips you could give would be helpful. Also, does anyone have any suggestions for where to pick up used parts for this model? Thanks!

 

[Laddies]

Re: 1998 Mercury 40 hp outboard convert from pull to elec. start?

I believe your stator has alternator windings, it would be a good idea if you went here www.mercruiserparts.com the parts you need singlely before making a deciding what you are going to do. That engine is pretty new to find a doner engine for parts and you may be able to find a rebuilt starter but when you figure the solinoid,rectifier,switch,primer and wiring the $400 may not look so bad.