If the wire thats hanging has a small eye on it (cant tell from pic) it goes on small stud on the outside of starter sol. There are two small ones. the one closest to block is the yellow/red one that energizes sol to crank eng. the one on the other side sends 12 volts to coil when cranking to bypass resistor wire. some systems dont use this wire but they are still in the harness.

I'm guessing its not a marine grade starter with spark protection then??????

No sir.....I got it installed and it works well...what is the spark protection for? I just wanted to make sure it was a heavy duty one with all metal internal gears....

P.s. That wire was for my corsica silent choice exhaust... I got in unhooked and wired open so no need for it

You want a marine type starter assembly. Gas fumes sort of linger low in the bilge. So any spark makes for a h@ll of a boom. Glad you got it running. A+

Ok did some research... Thanks griff... I'm going to use this starter to winterize with and try and purchase a new one before next season. Anyone know a good source to purchase a 454 starter from?

Anyone got a site for mercruiser starters for me?

Had good success here:

http://bpi.ebasicpower.com/c/MER10J-...for+Mercruiser

saw this one on another site:

http://stores.channeladvisor.com/db-...arine/Inboard/

Unless its rated for marine use, give it back to them and I'll send you a pine coffin..