Starter Torque Damages Powerhead

[toonsailor]

Has anyone had the starter damage the powerhead? I purchased a used 1995 40 hp force. I removed the starter and discovered the starter-mounting stud was broken in half and a corner of the starter-mounting surface, which has a bolt thru hole in it, had broken off the powerhead. A local boat mechanic told me this type of damage is common in Force outboards and is caused by the starter torque. Anyone out there with the same problem?
Thank you

 

[moparman]

Re: Starter Torque Damages Powerhead

common in force motors?don't think so, common on loose starters maybe, but that would be for any motor

 

[john from md]

Re: Starter Torque Damages Powerhead

Get a new mechanic. The only way that happens, and it does happen is if the starter hardware is not torqued down all the way or it works it self loose.

John

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Starter Torque Damages Powerhead

Much as I hate to say it: In this case, your mechanic is most likely correct! ALL the way back to the 2 cylinder Chrysler 35, 45, 55 engines, the starter mount on the block often split at the top stud. It had nothing to do with the looseness or tightness of the nuts; starter torque put a lateral load on the mounting boss and with use it would crack right at the stud. This problem was so common that Chrysler offered a steel backing plate so the block did not need to be replaced.

It may be possible to cross bolt the broken piece with a 10-32 bolt and avoid use of a steel backer.

 

[john from md]

Re: Starter Torque Damages Powerhead

I stand corrected Frank. However, I have never seen it on the higher power Force engines.

John

 

[roscoe]

Re: Starter Torque Damages Powerhead

Have replace several of these on 40 and 50 hp motors, don't think you can get them new any longer.

 

[toonsailor]

Re: Starter Torque Damages Powerhead

Frank
Thanks for reassuring me that this is common on Force motors. I'm going to take the powerhead in to a machine shop and have the broken tab welded back on, the stud drilled out and have the weak area reinforced by adding a steel plate. I have pictures of the damage, tried to upload but file sizes where to large.
Thanks to every one for their input.

Philip