How much will it cost to put in a new boat starter motor?

Question

I am a new boater, this is my second year on my boat, it is a 19' 1987 Bayliner Capri Cuddy. I boought a starter motor through a parts store manager I know. Unforunately, I do not know how to put it in myself. It is docked right next to a marina/parts store in Port Clinton on Lake Erie. Is it possible for me to just call and ask if someone can come next door to the dock and put it in for a fee? How much will they charge for something like that?

Answer 1

I agree with Jim, but any mechanic can handle this job.  Ask around the marina where you are, and I'd bet there a "guy" that does this kind of work.  You should have a 4 cylinder OMC. in that boat so it should take no more than 1/2 hour to do, so figure $60 to $75 .  If you happen to have the opt. V-8 it's much harder, because of space but it should be no more than  $150.  Also, have your old starter rebuilt, it's worth a lot more than you think.  Make sure that the starter you have is "sealed", most of the time this means sealing where the electrical terminals are and the end cover plates.  Good Luck!!!

Answer 2

You can call, but most marinas will not use third party parts.(warranty/liability issues).  Marinas on my side of the lake(ON) are charging $90-$130 per hr.  A starter re&re on a bayliner should be between .6 and 1.5 hrs.  Hope you got a marine starter, there is a difference!

Answer 3

most starter rebuild/replacements are unnecessary.  have you  measured the voltage at the starter terminal w/key turned to "start" and got 12V (+/- half a volt or so)?  If the answer is no then you have a bad battery, wiring fault, or faulty solenoid.

If the answer is yes, starters can be rebuilt way cheaper than purchased new.