Hi my starter needs either replacing or refurbing. If anyone has any advice on where I should send it/ buy new please let me know.
Im in Wiltshire. Should mention its a Powerlite Unit RAC 424 Petrol

Petrol or diesel

If petrol get a hi-torque WOSP type starter.

If diesel then get a 200/300 Tdi starter.

Auto Electrical Supplies - Starter Motors

Unless yours is a pristine factory spec restored example then you want an original spec starter.

Else - if yours is an everyday driver and you rely on it getting you to work then go for a more efficient and kinder on the battery hi-torque starter 

I can vouch for the WOSP on a petrol engine. It draws only 1,400 watts, just under 117 amps, far less than a standard motor. Some rewiring is needed as it's a pre engaged starter with an integral solenoid.

As it happens, I recently had my diesel starter motor rebuit by a man in his 70's, who has been doing them for 50 years.

I mentioned the constant recommendations for more modern, or 200/300Tdi starter motors.


Without saying anything, he took me outside his workshop and pointed at a couple of these starter motors, lying in a small pile of scrap, waiting for the skip.

He also pointed out how light they weighed, compared to mine.


He then said :"Yours will last 50 years, don't change it".

I won't....

They're much lighter and more compact, draw less current and are geared differently from the outdated bulky, weighty originals and they're much easier to fit. This is a rare example of modern technology being applicable to classic vehicles. I'd never go back to the old bulky starter motor now.
I suspect the 2 mentioned motors were scrap ones beyond repair or refurbishment.
Does your refurbisher have a wheel screwdriver to remove the field coils? Sounds like he ought to.

... not forgetting there are cheapo pirated copies on eBay etc. Get starter of a decent recognised brand and it should last a very long time.

 

WOSP is a reputable brand.

If you want to keep your original starter motor I'd take it to the nearest auto electrician and ask them to refurb it.

Quote from: Alan Drover on Mar 01, 2024, 08:11 PMWOSP is a reputable brand.

Alan, you've a 17H there. You'll know how you run better than me.  I assume a 17H flywheel blah, thus you get away with a pre-engage modern set-up. Best of all setups if you can get it, only I'm pretty sure yours is advice few can follow.

Yes so I should mention its a Powerlite Unit RAC 424 Petrol

Quote from: NoBeardNoTopKnot on Mar 02, 2024, 08:22 AM

Quote from: Alan Drover on Mar 01, 2024, 08:11 PMWOSP is a reputable brand.

Alan, you've a 17H there. You'll know how you run better than me.  I assume a 17H flywheel blah, thus you get away with a pre-engage modern set-up. Best of all setups if you can get it, only I'm pretty sure yours is advice few can follow.

The 17H was originally fitted with a pre engaged starter motor which was a heavy bulky item. The WOSP can be easily fitted without having to remove the downpipe.
It has a 9 tooth pinion unlike the 2.25 petrol which, from memory, has an 11 tooth pinion.

I'm learning, I run all 17H. Seems you attack this from a different direction. I know the Series starter won't mesh to a 17H. Do you run the 17H flywheel with your WOSP?

Yes, and the Series 3 clutch to match the gearbox. I'm using Series 3 manifolds and Zenith 36IV. It runs very well on this set up and at a recent plug change all 4 plugs removed were an even brick red colour.

If you do want to get your original refurbished and don't have anyone local you are happy to use then I can recommend Lancashire Rotating Electrics. Very good for starters, alternators and dynamos.

Alec

Hi Alec,
Great to see you back on here!