Starter- New vs rebuild???

[Fiat4Fun]

So, I understand that a rebuild is less expensive, but my experience in autos is rebuilds quality varies. My boat has a Mercruiser 5.0, and the starter is dead. I used this forum to do the tests, and I pulled the starter, and it is dead. The PO had the starter replaced a couple of years ago, and it looks new. I know the original lasted for at least 20 years.

So my question, given the location of the starter, is it a better bet to purchase a new one, or just get the old one rebuilt. What I don't know is, if the "new" that the PO put in, is even the right Heavy duty unit.

What do you think, is it worth the expense for a new one? Or just go for a rebuild?

Thanks,
Bob

 

[Fordiesel69]

Re: Starter- New vs rebuild???

What it boils down to is if you trust your local rebuild shop. I don't, every starter or alt, they had screwed up royaly. You need to verift it is a marine starter and not an auto. If so it will not have seals and it will not be spark proof.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Starter- New vs rebuild???

I always put rebuilt starters in my american autos. They worked just fine. So, I started putting marine rebuilt starters in my mercruiser. They were not of the same quality that I expected, however. I do not think the rebuild included a new starter solenoid, consequently, the starter solenoid had too much wear and too much play, and would stick in it's housing. That made the starter unreliable.

I therefore recommend you buy new Marine starters. You can sometimes order them from Auto parts stores, and save a few $$ over marine stores.

 

[scutly]

Re: Starter- New vs rebuild???

new aftermarket marine starters on ebay for less than $100 shipped. couldn't vouch for there quality though. they do give a one year warranty.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/NEW-...3556366QQptZBoatQ5fPartsQ5fAccessoriesQ5fGear

 

[joncrisler]

Re: Starter- New vs rebuild???

That starter is based on the Delco PG260, which is a gear reduction starter (as opposed to direct drive). This is the newer style starter and replaces the direct drive style, its lighter and tends to sping the engine faster- all good things.

I have purchased 2 of these Delco starters new so far and have been happy, but that price is significantly cheaper- I think mine were abut $115-125.

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: Starter- New vs rebuild???

Just take it to a starter/alternator rebuild shop. I had mine rebuilt (30+ years old) and it looks brand new, works just fine. It costed $70 and took less than a day for them to do.

 

[joe_nj]

Re: Starter- New vs rebuild???

Where did you buy the Delco Starter?