1998 25hp Merc starter bendix questions

[brentmiller]

After reading many threads here, I have a question about how important the tapered tops of the starter bendix are. I replaced my smoked out starter with a new one (SM52160E) that I measured to the old one. After trying to start it the first time after replacing the starter, the bendix jumped up too high and after repeated attempts at starting, it flattened out the tops and left shavings all over. In fact, the bendix travels so high that it's actually started to shave the top of the collar below the bendix gear as well. WAY too high. Now, during starting the bendix drops prematurely, before the motor has enough compression to start (which leads to wet plugs and draining battery and on and on.) Seems as though the travel height of the bendix needs to be adjusted. How is this done?

The problems arose from a low battery and old gas by the way which I now have all resolved. My only issue now is how the bendix meets the flywheel. Can I replace the bendix with the one from the original starter if I get it off? Is the travel adjustable by washers or shims? If I do that, shouldn't I replace the old starter bolts with new ones as well?

Thanks in advance,
Brent

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: 1998 25hp Merc starter bendix questions

Sounds like either the wrong bendix (compare the old and the new) or the snap ring that holds it on the shaft is missing. Or the replacement starter sits a little higher than the old.

 

[brentmiller]

Re: 1998 25hp Merc starter bendix questions

I'll have a look in a minute, but where is there a snap ring if there is a brass spacer and a NyLock nut on top of the shaft?
Is there no adjustment on a starter that fits untold models/Hp/years spanning a decade?

TIA,
Brent

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: 1998 25hp Merc starter bendix questions

If you have the lock nut then there is no snap ring. I've never seen a bendix that was adjustable.

 

[brentmiller]

Re: 1998 25hp Merc starter bendix questions

I measured (closely) the bendix height between the two and although the new one (was) an 1/8th or so taller, it has resolved itself if you know what I mean. I think it's gonna be okay now. I replaced all the HT leads at the battery and cleaned the carb so maybe no more hard starts and I oughta make it.

This is a new-to-me boat and motor so until I figure out all the warm weather vs. cold weather cranking issues it'll be fine.

Thanks for the help.

Brent