Concern with the MD17C in our Alkbin-25

[NickScheuer]

Our Albin-25 is on the hard in our driveway, so in order to change the motor's water coolant over to non-toxic antifreeze, I disconnected the scavenging hose from the through-hull and positioned it in a bucket of coolant. I had earlier removed the floor panel under the helm, and when I turned the key to start, I observed a pair of yellow-white sparks (about 1cm dia) flew off the starboard side of the motor by the battery connections while emitting a "POP-POP" sound. I immediately turned the key off. After a short pause I again turned the key to start and another pair of big round sparks "popped" off the starter connections ( I believe that was the location, but am not 100% certain). However, when I continued to hold the key at "start", the engine fired quickly enough and began sucking antifreeze out of the bucket with no more sparks appearing. When my wife, stationed at the exhaust with another bucket, told me that the outpouring coolant was sufficiently concentrated to withstand freezing, I shut the motor down.

It would appear that I need to have work done by a competent Volvo-Penta Mechanic next Spring. Any thoughts on the part of MD17C Cognoscenti here?

[Tree]

To me, it sounds like you just have a poor connection. Remove the terminals and give them a good clean and try it again.

[WillieC]

So, Nick. What did you find? Tree's assessment sounds right. And once you start checking loose connections, don't stop. Just be careful with wrenches on the hot wire(s).

[NickScheuer]

Batteries are out, so no hot wires. Temps are presently below zero and the boat is tarped for the Winter, so I won't be doing anything until Spring.

[WillieC]

Ah, yes. Rockford. The mother of my children hailed from Crystal Lake, may she rest in peace. I completely understand. Go pour some more eggnog.

[WillieC]

Nick, let us know when you dig out. I have learned a couple things about the 17C this winter, though yours sounds like starter wiring. If the big battery cable comes loose, it is not far to grounded parts and it is always hot, when connected to the battery. Bench testing the starter is easy. Removing it from the boat, not so easy. You do yoga, right?

[NickScheuer]

Thanks for the offer WillieC.