Weak Starter

[Jesse]

I bought a 1988 Catalina 30 two years ago, and have difficulty starting the engine. It doesn't crank very strongly, and sounds like it is struggling to start. I have replaced both batteries and the starter, but still am experiencing the problem. I am wondering if it has something to do with the size or distance of the cables from the M25XP Universal Diesal to the batteries. Would appreciate any advice.

 

[Chuck Reed]

Check the glow plugs

Check your glow plugs. How long are you holding in the glow plugs before trying to start?

 

[Tom Wingo]

Upgrade to engine wiring harness

I have a 1989 C-30. I recently upgraded my wiring harness with the Seaward harness upgrade. I was shocked by the amount of corrosion in the old plugs. I also noted that the insulation around the glow plug wires had melted. Starting is much easier now. The upgrade also shortens the distance current has to travel to charge the batteries. The upgrade is very inexpensive and easy to do.

 

[Jesse]

Upgrade to engine wiring harness??

Thanks Tom for your advice. Where can I purchase the Seaward harness upgrade?

 

[tom]

harness

Jesse check out this link itsays Cat27 but it tells you about the catalina engine harness upgrade

 

[tom]

cables

Jesse I would also suggest checking the battery cables/connections between your starter and your battery switch and batteries . Check your ground cables as well, I got a blue seas negative buss that i linked the main ground wire with all the battery grounds, I think it helped alot. I agree with the previous replies corrosion in the original wire harness can really drop the Volts.