1996 120hp Force flywheel problem

[andrew sawyer]

I purchased a Force Motor in 1996, 120hp. Approx. every 100 hours the fly wheel teeth are worn down in four positions. I've replaced 4 fly wheels and 4 starter motors since ownership. Most recently my outboard mechanic suggested that the damage is occuring from a design fault, a mis-match between the flywheel and pin teeth on the starter motor. His recommendation was to sell after the last repair. Has anyone else suffered this problem? Can anyone suggest an option for repair that doesnt require constant replacement of these parts? Any feed back would be greatly appreciated. Manufacture in Australia has told me that they do not support this motor anymore and dont want to know about it!

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 1996 120hp Force flywheel problem

Not sure about 96 but I don't think Merc would have changed the starter design. SO:

Are the teeth themselves worn down or is the underside of the teeth and the top of the bendix wearing? If the bendix is contacting the lower side of the teeth, then either the starter is mounted too high (don't think that's possible though) or the nut on top is not all the way down, allowing the bendix to touch the teeth.

If the teeth themselves are wearing check the starter mount to be sure the starter is perfectly vertical. Also, check to be sure the lower strut is in place from the starter through bolt to the block. This small strut is quite important in keeping the starter from shifting. Is the starter mount cracked allowing the teeth to mismatch with the flywheel?

Question: Do Force engines turn counterclockwise down under? I've heard that toilet water spins in the opposite direction and dogs wag their tails in opposite direction. There's your problem: the starter is turning the wrong way! LOL!