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Old 08-21-2014, 01:07 PM   #14
sum-r breeze
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Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Burlington Ma / Laconia NH
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Default Important Lesson Here!!!

Quote:
Originally Posted by jrc View Post
Marine grade starter have a screen over the vents. The brushes in the starter still spark, they really have to on a simple DC motor. But the screen keep the spark from igniting bilge fumes.

The problem happens when someone wants to save money and use an automotive starter in their boat. Most boats have GM Chevy blocks so an automotive starter can usually be made to fit. But now you have one less safety feature.
NEVER substitute ANY automotive engine part in place of a marine part. They are more expensive for a very good reason. They are engineered to keep explosive sparks contained and are usually treated for moisture resistance in a wet bilge area. Any AC motor (like an air conditioner cooling pump) or DC motor (like a hydraulic lift for the hatch) is required to have this spark protection built in, or it would be prohibited from being installed in the engine compartment by the manufacturer. NEVER SUBSTITUTE!! It could cost you your life!!!


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