Westerbeke W18

Newsgroups Archive Prior to 2025
1

Hi

Would like to know if anyone has replaced their starter in there Westerbeke Eng I have a 1886 W18 HBW-50 18 hp 3 cylinder. When going to the Westerbeke parts list I found a number OF 34552 . When searching on line what I have found that there is an associated number of 23-5600, Odd, , when ever I call a dealer that sells the “Westerbeke” starter.. they cant seam to identify if this is the correct one for my eng. I am planning to remove the starter and check if the outside casing has a stamped number on it. Any help or advise welcome.

Thank you,

Ron B
NS 26
Buona Vita

2

The first thing I would do is to take it to an auto electric place, they can probably make it as good as new for a fraction of the price.

Mike Jennings.
NSC30 5.
Poort Moody. BC.

3

I completely agree about using an auto electric place. A starter is a starter etc.

4

How do you know for sure it’s a starter problem?? Also, if we knew where you are, maybe someone could recommend an auto electric shop.

Joe Valinoti
S/V iL Gatto NS30U #221
Sea Harbour YC
Oriental, NC USA

5

Thank you all for responding. Determining it is the starter.. process of elimination , 2 new batteries @ 1000 amp each. Checking everything. fuel & elect…talking to numerous Mech on the issue of hard starting - lagging when trying to start. Additionally, already talked to rebuild shops- est , cost just about the same as new. If the part stock # 23-5600 is the correct one ??? … I can purchase one for under $200.00 from Sierra Starter For Westerbeke Engine, Sierra Part #23-5600 | Overton’s (overtons.com) The Big question. is… is this the right one LOL

Thanks
Ron B
Buona Vita
NS 26

6

Probably a Denso starter. But take to a auto electric shop and get it tested and fixed. Westerbeke is the last pace on earth to buy from. These are repairable and worst case off the shelf parts at a 1/3 the westerbeke price

7

Ron B.: The Westerbeke part number is 30593 and crosses to 23-5600. BTW, a poor ground can cause those symptoms you’re experiencing. As a retired mechanic, I have seen many good starters and batteries trashed for that reason.
PS – Not knowing where you live means we can’t offer to help more

Joe Valinoti
S/V iL Gatto NS30U #221
Sea Harbour YC
Oriental, NC USA

8

My boat is in the Kemah Boardwalk Marina, Kemah TX marina… I live near Houston area

PS Ill check the ground again … But I have already removed all grounds and cleaned,

Thank you