Non OEM Starter for 78 Evinrude 70 hp

[randyray41]

Ok, I went the cheap route!!! OEM starter went out, Instead of purchasing the $200 OEM starter I purchased an aftermarket replacement from a company in Ga. for around $60. Boat been in water about 4 times and the starter is starting to not engage unless I spin the gear.
Is their a reliable aftermarket starter or should the OEM be the way to go. The saying, "you get what you pay for" seems to apply here.

 

[racerone]

I would first take the original starter apart.--------Do a simple test on it and perhaps replace the brushes.----------I replace brushes on these and they cost me $4.50 a set.

 

[randyray41]

Yea, only problem is I threw it away about 6 months ago.

 

[racerone]

Some say----" The bitterness of poor quality is remembered long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten "-----But we do live in a throw it away society.----Folks are scared to go to repair shops.

 

[randyray41]

I tried to have it repaired. I could find no one in my area to do it.

Is my best bet to purchase the OEM or is there a reliable company who makes a good starter? I found several companies who produce these starters, not sure which route is best. I really dislike being stranded on the water!!!

 

[racerone]

Remove the starter drive.----Find and fit an o-ring to go underneath that drive.----Re-assemble.-----Test run it.

 

[boobie]

Arco in Pensacola FL used to have a good one.