8V92 won't start...is it the starter?

[Dayton40]

Port side doesn't start..I can hear a clunk but doesnt turn over.
Replaced 8D batteries (24V start system)
Same result...
Replaced all cables..
Same result..
Is it safe to assume the starter is bad, as I can hear the solenoid?
Or am I forgetting something simple as usual?

TIA

[nuku34]

Hello OP,
A bad starter doesn't usually go "clunk".

I'd try turning the engine over by hand (put a big wrench on the flywheel nut). That "clunk" could be water in one of the cylinders! Hydraulic lock! If so, do not try to use the starter or you could bend a connecting rod.

[thesaltytar]

Nuku34 is spot on.

You will feel some resistance going through the compression stroke, but nothing that should require you doubting if you might be doing damage in the process (if you start eyeing up a bigger wrench.... Stop).

If it doesn't turn over and it feels locked up the next wise move might be to get a mechanic if one is available.

My next move, depending on the engine, would be to check oil sump for fuel or water presence, only proceeding if the oil is clean, then pull injectors and bar over again. If all goes smooth you could at that point tap the starter with all the injectors out (and fuel line secured.... Lol) to blow down the cylinders.

Also cover the injector ports with rags unless you want to scrub down the overhead.... Ask me how I discovered that one...

[HopCar]

Bad solenoid? Is power getting from the solenoid to the starter?

[skipperpete]

Follow thesaltytar and nuku34’s advice and if anyone suggests swapping starters.... don’t. There’s a chance that the engines are contra rotating and the starters are
not swappable. If you need to delve deeper , removing the airbox covers provides a wealth of information if you do indeed have water in a cylinder

[Dayton40]

Thanks guys
I figured as much...Just making sure I wasn't brain farting something simple.
Cheers

[sfnz]

Originally Posted by Dayton40

Thanks guys
I figured as much...Just making sure I wasn't brain farting something simple.
Cheers

ok first remove starter with wiring in place if possible and tie/ restrain it then try hitting the start button again, no go and you're halfway to getting it out, if it does run then there is a sort of blessing with 2 stroke diesels with regard to cylinder air intake ports so..... with a suitable spanner turn the engine BACKWARDS this should allow any water to be released from compression and drained off via the intake ports in the bore, oh and good luck

[AKA-None]

Originally Posted by sfnz

ok first remove starter with wiring in place if possible and tie/ restrain it then try hitting the start button again, no go and you're halfway to getting it out, if it does run then there is a sort of blessing with 2 stroke diesels with regard to cylinder air intake ports so..... with a suitable spanner turn the engine BACKWARDS this should allow any water to be released from compression and drained off via the intake ports in the bore, oh and good luck

Disconnect the battery first just in case you touch positive to ground

[skipperpete]

Very wise advice from AKA-None, that Delco starter motor is about 5kw and weighs over 60 lbs ......best handled using a chainblock and soft sling if you want to keep all your fingers. Even powering one up on the workshop floor is a bit sketchy
....... unless of course if you have the latest little geared reduction starter which is a much easier proposition.
Pete.