Re: Starter for a 540
 

mopower,

You are right, I do remember that. You can't do that anymore with newer cars. It sucks getting old.

Re: Starter for a 540
 

Hey Clearman! Are you saying my motors aren't "built"?

Re: Starter for a 540
 

Now that I think about it, those GM starters didn't have any trouble starting my 12:5 to 1:00 BBC's when I was road racing. All kidding aside, you do need a little extra oompf every once in awhile.

Re: Starter for a 540
 

I tried the tilton starters and work good when they are new. Over time big problems. There really not meant for marine although they are sealed. I got stuck on the dock at a poker run and had a hell of a time getting parts at the local parts store. The motors used are out of a import car. The stock starters are available pretty much anywhere. We use a timing retard with no problems.

Re: Starter for a 540
 

Yeah , tell me about it :(

Re: Starter for a 540
 

mopower--I'm with you!

Re: Starter for a 540
 

Lmarth,

Sorry about your luck :D :D :D

It takes me all night to do what I used to do all night :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :D

Re: Starter for a 540
 

What about the Mercruiser starters, would have to look up part number but the one used on the old 540" HP500 worked fine. I second the motion of cranking 10 secs until you get oil pressure..
Rick

Re: Starter for a 540
 

I checked out the part #'s for the factory Merc. starters. They are they same all the way to and including their 800SC motors. I guess that my starter from my 454 Magnum will do the job. I just never thought about using it.

Re: Starter for a 540
 

Well Checky, let me give you some insight on using the stock starter on your Dart block.
If your starter has the hanger bracket located on the rear of housing, you are going to have to drill into the boss on your new block and tap a hole in order to use the bracket. I went to use my relatively new 10MT style starter on my Dart block and that is what I discovered.
Then, Jpclear tells me about how his stock starter sometimes has a tendency to groan while it tries to start his 540 when warm. He recommends this outfit called MES Marine, to get one of these "mini high torque starters (which is a whole other story. see attached photo). After a lot of screwing around, four starters and a ring gear later, I ended up with the CVR.
While your motor is out and you have to drill and tap the block, now is a good time to check your gear lash between the starter and the ring gear. Also check your bolt length to insure that the starter is firmly mounted and there is zero clearance between it and the block. Make sure that the bolts are not bottomed out in the block.
Remember, you are turning over a lot of mass and surface area with a 540.
I am not saying what I did is necessary. I just figured that an 11 lb. 90 amp starter was a better way to go than the 19 lb. 325 amp starter.
Have fun!
Russ