[C320-list] Intermitant starter motor issue Yanmar 3GM30F

[Warren Updike]

I, too, have exact same issue although ours is a 1993 Perkins M30 with 2,000 hrs. Last year I pulled the starter/solenoid to have them serviced. They replaced the solenoid. Since then it starts normally about 70% of the time. A few rapid pushes of the starter button and it starts. This is not only annoying but worrying. I checked the connections in the starter circuit and pulled/cleaned, and applied conductive grease. Also, replace the start button. No change. Next I will do voltage drop tests on the battery cables.  

I've checked the voltage at the solenoid when starting and it is a normal 10V under load of the starter. I'd like to do this when it fails to start, but there's no way to tell when this will happen. In his book, "Boat Owner's Mechanical and Electrical Manual" by Nigel Calder, he describes a series of tests with a volt meter to track down such problem. This is the next thing I'm planning. 

I'll provide an update when I get through this. In the meantime, please keep us informed of your issue and how you resolve it if you do.

Warren and Pattie Updike
1994 C320 "Warr de Mar" #62
Middle River, Chesapeake Bay

-----Original Message-----
From: Ken Geiger [mailto:kendgb at aol.com] 
Sent: Monday, August 07, 2017 11:21 AM
To: c320-list at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Intermitant starter motor issue Yanmar 3GM30F

Sometimes when I push the starter button, having turned on the key, there is no sound of the starter motor engaging, no clicking but there is dip down in the voltage gauge observed.  This leads to think that the solenoid is failing.  So far after a few pushes the starter cranks and the engine starts.  

Anyone have a similar situation and solution.  

Also wonder about a source for a new solenoid and starter and if anyone has experience with the after market starters and solenoids that are out there.  

The 320 is a year 2000, engine 3GM30F and the starter is a Hitachi labelled 128170-77010   S114-303  12V  98B

Thanks

Ken Geiger
Northern Dream #765