[azboatman]

Anyone know how hard it is to replace a starter for a mercruiser 4.3 v-6 engine? Also, does anyone know where to pick up a starter for a good price? How common is it to damage the teeth of the flywheel if the starter goes bad? Had a marine mechanic tell me the mercruisers are bad for breaking teeth on the flywheel if the starter goes bad. So far, he is quoting me over $1000 to replace both if needed.

Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks.

[mikeyt]

I do know its a pain to get at the bolts on the starter and once removed you really have to rotate the flywheel to check the ring gear for any damage/wear.
When you replace it you have to use a Marine starter. Dont use an Auto starter as they are not sealed for sparks. A $1k bill for both jobs isn't far out of line.

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[jeffryb]

Actually, it was quit easy to change the starter. If you have the SS interior the back bench seat tilts forward then unscrew the side panel and then you can lay down on your side and everything is right there. As far as the flywheel I didn't mess with that I changed my starter for other reasons.

[azboatman]

Originally Posted by jeffryb

Actually, it was quit easy to change the starter. If you have the SS interior the back bench seat tilts forward then unscrew the side panel and then you can lay down on your side and everything is right there. As far as the flywheel I didn't mess with that I changed my starter for other reasons.

Thanks to you and Mikey for the info. How much did you pay for the starter (marine) and where did you buy it from?

[jeffryb]

You know I can't remember the exact price but it was right around $200 bucks and I bought it at a local marina.