Catalina 30 Universal Model 25 Engine Starting Issues

[sailnski]

Just a follow up to say that with 30-40 seconds of glow plugs, it started up within a few seconds of cranking the engine - a much better result. Many thanks.

 

[garyskip30]

I'm considering buying a 1986 Catalina 30 that had difficulty starting from a 'cold start' on a 90 degree day. The broker turned it over 3 times before it 'caught' and he thinks that maybe on the third time he had turned the ignition to what I believe is a glow plug setting. I have a friend who bought a boat that had similar starting issues and the engine lacked compression, leading to a nice new Beta, $15k later. I'd appreciate any thoughts you may have.

I have a 1983 Catalina and have found I need to glow the plugs for one minute in order for the engine to quickly start, on hot days I can cut that to about 45 sec.

 

[Hayden Watson]

I have a 1983 Catalina and have found I need to glow the plugs for one minute in order for the engine to quickly start, on hot days I can cut that to about 45 sec.

I would highly recommend the solenoid mod for glow plugs because it greatly reduces the glow time and drain on batteries.

 

[garyskip30]

Thank you