Yanmar 2GM Engine crackling noise. Starter? Audio included

[selbyt]

Does anyone know what the crackling noise is at the second of this audio clip?

Audio of engine: http://sndup.net/npxx

At 26 secs the noise is more audible as I move the recorder closer to the source on the rear port side behind the engine. The crackling noise is still audible after the engine kill switch is pulled before the key is turned off.

[Cheechako]

That's a weird one. Sounds like static electricity! Never heard that. Possible exhaust pinhole making that sound as water/gas come out?

"...before the key is turned off." So the noise continues until you turn the key off even though you've pulled the kill? I wonder if it IS electrical? Alternator?

[Wotname]

Try some more diagnostics e.g.

1. Mute engine low oil pressure alarm and turn key NO but don't start - any unusual noise?
2. Run engine normally, stop engine normally, leave key ON, mute low oil pressure alarm - any unusual noise?

Record the noises and post again!

[Wotname]

BTW, it does a little like electrical arcing and that can't be a good thing!

[skipperpete]

Do you have an electric fuel pump or a bilge blower back there. ?

[selbyt]

I've owned the boat for less than a year and I'm not sure if I have an electric fuel pump.

When I started the engine today there was no trace of the noises from two days ago.