Starter Problem

[Tim]

I have an 88 Cat 30 tall rig with a Universal M-25 XP. I rcently had a starter problem where I hit the start button and the motor turned over, but when I released the start button the starter did not disengage. I had o kill the disconnect switch to shut the motor down. I replace the solenoid valve but am still experiencing the same problem. I have jumped the solenoid (bypassed the start button with a screw driver) and still the same problem. I've even connect the solenoid to power but not to the starter to check the throw and release of the solenoid and it appears to be fine.My questions are #1 does anyone know of another area to check before I replace a $530.00 starter?#2 Is the starter replacement better left to a mechanic or is it something anyone could handle?

 

[SEAN]

Starter Motor

First of all, don't buy a starter motor. Have it rebuilt if it needs it. Also it is a very easy job anybody could do.

 

[Douglas]

Switch thoughts

Have you considered looking at the starter switch. It would be easy to check by doing a continuity check to see if it stays hot after you go to start position with battery disconected. You could also check it hot for power with batery conected. It could also be a bad solinoid on the starter itself. If your mechanical enough pull the starter and dissasemble the solinoid from the starter and clean it up.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Planet Catalina]

Rob's story

Rob (my guy) had a C30 w/the same engine. Here's his story of the same problem:I started the boat as normal, just got out of the marina (about a 3 minute motor) when I noticed an electrical smoke smell. I immediately shut down the engine & put up my sails then opened the engine compartment & out roiled the smoke! The starter switch had continued to show contact so the starter motor burnt itself up while the engine was running. Removing the starter was a matter of disconnecting some wires & two bolts (REMEMBER TO TURN BATTERY TO "OFF" POSITION BEFORE WORKING ON THE STARTER!). I took it to the starter/alternator rebuilder & it cost $65 to rebuild it. They even painted it for me! I then took the switch apart, checked it w/the continuity tester & sprayed Cramalin (not sure about the spelling but it's electronic contact cleaner) in it. It seemed to work but I ended up replacing the switch anyway cuz I felt safer that way (worth the $12!). Good luck!Rob (& LaDonna)

 

[John Mavrovich]

Wiring Upgrade

There's a wiring harness upgrade that affects '88 thru '92 Catalinas. Basically there's a faulty molded plug behind the engine control panel that needs to be replaced with a "term strip" connector. Also an new connector at the engine. This upgrade also involves rewiring the alternator for an improved charging circuit. I had to do this on my '91 C30 and it wasn't hard. The molded plug can/does short out! This may be your problem. Contact Seaward Products at 562-699-7997. They fabricate the electrical for Catalina. I found Lonnie to be very helpful. The kit is about $20. Good luck.