Starter Drive Replacement

Well fellas, got the sunsport out for Memorial Day weekend and had some starter grinding/whining issues. I ended up getting the boat going, but could definitely tell that the drive was still engaged with the motor running (loud howling noise). Took her home and got the starter off. The drive sprocket is definitely chewed so I ordered a new one. My question is: What kind of grease/lubricant is used for the bushings and planetary gears? I've read white lithium grease should do the trick, but I just wanted to make sure before I put it back together.

BTW--the ring gear looked okay. Shew!!

Attachment 14227

Bendix hanging up . Usually a good wack with the hammer will free it off the flywheel . But since we are always around water with these starters a good rule of thumb would be some tri flow , or a rust inhibitor . Just once a season should be ok


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks Lively! I replaced the drive unit (bendix), bench tested it, and put it in the boat. I will be out tomorrow to test it in "real world" conditions.

Very easy fix. Flywheel teeth looked a little worn (age appropriate), but is not missing any teeth. That was a relief!

If that's the only issue I have this year I will be one happy man!

I had my boat start up on it own today for about 1 min . Water in ign switch . Lol it was deff a ghost story for sure


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk