Replacing starter on a 225 Weekender

[Last Dollar]

Anyone ever replace a starter on a 225 Weekender?? Mine occasionally clicks and does not turn over. After pecking on the starter with a hammer it will start. I'm sure it's the starter, batteries are new.

These boats are not designed to give access to the various engine parts and looks like removing this starter is going to be very difficult. Someone suggested removing the exhaust manifold and riser. Looks like this may open things up but it will be my last option. After Thanksgiving I'm going to tackle the job. I don't want to worry about this or leave it for Spring. Has anyone removed their exhaust manifold to do this and did it give you better access to the starter??

 

[OllieC]

Please let me/us know how this goes. I’m going to replace my manifolds and risers next Spring. If there is access, I might as well replace the starter too. Cheap insurance.

 

[OllieC]

Also, not sure what you have for a motor, but Eddie has the same motors I do. Here’s a good vid on replacing the manifolds and risers.

 

[Last Dollar]

Thanks for this video. Looks like removing the manifold and riser would make the job much easier plus it would be a good time to replace plug wires and plugs !!

 

[Lazy Daze]

I haven't done it on a 215/225, but the good thing is that, comparatively speaking, the engine access on these boats is actually quite good. If you can't get in there "by feel", or don't want to, yes, removing the manifold should work for you. although you're still working at an awkward angle... but that's kind of par for the course with Boat Mechanics 101.

Just as a side note... removing the engine completely only takes a couple hours. And then you can have it on a stand in your garage all winter to tinker.

 

[2016FLD]

I changed my starter this weekend on a 260 DA with a 5.7, without removing the exhaust; it was painful, literally! It would have been a lot easier had I removed the exhaust. Here's a pic of the contortionism required with exhaust in place.

 

[Last Dollar]

I changed my starter this weekend on a 260 DA with a 5.7, without removing the exhaust; it was painful, literally! It would have been a lot easier had I removed the exhaust. Here's a pic of the contortionism required with exhaust in place.


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Oh what we have to go through on boat maintenance. I can feel your pain! I was able to get my old starter off this weekend but a replacement has not been purchased yet. I'm wondering what brand to buy. I've decided to either get a Quicksilver or the Arco. I've heard good things about Arco Marine Electrical products. To get my starter off I ended up not laying down beside the engine. I don't have room to lay in the bilge like you did and must just lay on the deck. It would be a long reach!! Then I got the idea of putting down a soft pad in the bilge, putting my left knee on it and just sort of laying over the side of the engine. This gave me the leverage and room needed to remove the wires and bolts. Of course I was almost upside down but reasonably comfortable. I'm sure the installation process will be as easy. Right now we are getting our first snow fall here in WV so there is no rush. Thanks for your reply.

 

[2016FLD]

I bought Quicksilver, which a Delco unit. In my area the price difference wasn't much different. Your solution was creative, better than mine!

 

[OllieC]

So you left your manifold and riser on? I’m still trying to figure out how you laid on your motor? Over the top after taking off the cowling?
I can squeeze one arm and my upper body through the panel but I’m not sure if that would get me there. Plus it would be my left arm and I’m a righty.

(watching this thread)

 

[Last Dollar]

Since my boat is a 225 and yours is a 215 there may be slight differences in the engine accessibility. I did not remove the manifold or anything but the starter. Actually I did not lay on top of the engine but supported my body weight with my left knee on a soft pad and laid down alongside the engine. I could not lay on the deck and reach it so by putting my knee in and sort of squeezing in between the engine and deck I was able to achieve success. My son bent over the top of the engine and with his long arms was able to hold the starter up until I got both bolts free. It took about 10 minutes.

 

[Tclark18]

I feel everyone's pain. I did my starter on my 225 in July. Did not remove manifold or risers. I laid my legs on the deck and slid my torso between the engine and bilge. It can be done but not fun...Took about 1.5 hrs. removal and install.

 

[OllieC]

You guys are contortionists. I’m a thin build but 6’4” and that would be extremely tight for me.

 

[Last Dollar]

I'm now 5'7" but 74 years old. Things down bend as easily nor is my strength what it once was. By putting my left knee down in the bilge beside the motor that allowed me to lay between the exhaust manifold and deck. Yes it was very uncomfortable and thankfully did not take long. Now waiting on a new starter and warm day to put it back on. Probably after Christmas.