Replacing an Onan Generator Starter motor

[BadBoy]

Hi, my first somewhat big DIY fix for my MH. I am replacing the starter motor for my Generator. I found a new one for $188.00 as the old one was drawing 350 amps to start it..yikes! (told its cheapest to just replace)

Anyway, I think I found a good deal for the price. Any advice/step by step instructions anyone could help with? Think its just 2 bolts if its like a car but hey..I'm a newby to all of this! Still smiling tho!

[RJay]

BadBoy,
Good for you! If I were you, the day before, I would try to loosen those bolts and if they seem rusted in spray them with WD-40 or a penetrating oil. By the next day you should be able to remove them.

[RV Mech Tech]

BB- make sure that all the mounting flanges and electrical connections are clean - the starter grounds through the flange that bolts to the genset/motor flange- so any corrosion here will = resistance - when you first try and start the genset just touch the buton - if everything is ok then it will 'sound' o.k. but if you hear any abnormal sound like grinding then stop and check everything out =- this may include removing the replacement starter to check and see what is wrong-also make sure you fasten the mounting bolts evenly - usually a generator will require 20-30 FT-Lbs for the mounting bolts- I have had some problems with both automotive and generator and small engine starters because the starter drives are manufactured offshore and not machined to North American specifications so the clearances betwen the starter and ring gear/flywheel are not what they are supposed to be-let us know how everything turns out.

[BadBoy]

Great advice guys thx. Spraying the bolts right now. Yeah I remember the clearance issues when doing my car..needed to shim it just right. I am hoping that it will be simply remove old and use existing shim to replace with new....but I'm likley dreaming it would be that simple haha!
Thx again