Volvo MD2B Starter Motor Advice Needed Please

[Tam Lin]

I was on the boat yesterday and the engine started OK. I ran it for a few minutes then turned it off for a while. When I came to start it again I could only get the engine to turn with the decompression levers up. This has happened on and off before but I have new batteries now so was a bit puzzled. Then I noticed smoke coming from the starter motor so I stopped trying to start it and turned everything off! The starter motor was too hot to touch at this stage. I have looked on the Internet and am not altogether clear about things. As the starter motor uses two belts to start the engine and I have an alternator, do I have a modified dynastart system? The starter motor is painted a different colour to the rest of the engine so this might be a clue.
What do I do next? I know that I have to take the motor off and bring it ashore but is there anything that I can do to it myself? Is it possible to buy a replacement or is the only alternative to take it to an auto electricians for repair?
I have tried to add a photo. Any advice would be appreciated.

View attachment 32597

 

[VicS]

Early MD2B models had a starter generator. I guess yours has had an alternator added later.

Check all connections would be the first thing to do.

Wiring diagrams in the manual on Bluemoment might help http://www.bluemoment.com/manuals/MD1B-2B-3B_Workshop.pdf but there is no information on the machine itself.

Probably your best bet is to look for an automobile electrician who can sort it out although worth having a look at it for anything obvious wrong. Worn brushes for example.

 

[Tam Lin]

Early MD2B models had a starter generator. I guess yours has had an alternator added later.

Check all connections would be the first thing to do.

Wiring diagrams in the manual on Bluemoment might help http://www.bluemoment.com/manuals/MD1B-2B-3B_Workshop.pdf but there is no information on the machine itself.

Probably your best bet is to look for an automobile electrician who can sort it out although worth having a look at it for anything obvious wrong. Worn brushes for example.

Hi VicS,
Looking at the forecast for the next few days I decided that the best time to go out to my swinging mooring in the next few days was today - so I went. Got the motor off fairly easily and noticed burning marks on the rear. I will take your advice and go to an auto electrician tomorrow. Thanks.