Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models Review

First Impressions of Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models

The Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models promises reliable starting power for classic Ford engines. Sierra International has a reputation for quality aftermarket marine parts, so I was eager to see how this remanufactured starter would perform compared to a new or even a rebuilt original. This 3-bolt starter with its 4″ case diameter is a common sight on many Ford V8s, and a reliable starter is critical whether you’re cruising the lake or just trying to get to work.

My aging ski boat, powered by a late 80s Ford 302, had been exhibiting increasingly sluggish starts. The old starter was drawing excessive current, and I suspected it was only a matter of time before it failed completely, leaving me stranded. I considered purchasing a brand new starter, but the cost was significantly higher, and I’ve had positive experiences with remanufactured parts in the past.

Upon unboxing the Sierra International 185917, I was immediately impressed with its clean appearance and solid feel. The remanufacturing process seemed thorough, with a fresh coat of paint and no obvious signs of wear or damage. Compared to the generic auto parts store starters, this unit felt more robust and purpose-built for marine applications.

I almost opted for a high-torque mini-starter, but those can sometimes cause issues with flywheel clearance on older engines. The Sierra International 185917 promised to be a drop-in replacement, and I valued the ease of installation over a slight performance increase. My initial impression was positive; it seemed like a well-remanufactured unit ready to breathe new life into my boat’s starting system.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models to the Test

First Use Experience

The real test, of course, was getting the Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models installed and seeing how it performed on the water. Installation was straightforward; the 3-bolt mount aligned perfectly, and the electrical connections were easy to access. After connecting Sierra’s recommended 18-5801 Solenoid and double-checking everything, I turned the key with a bit of trepidation.

The engine sprang to life instantly! No more sluggish cranking or struggling to start. Even better, the starter sounded strong and healthy, without any of the grinding noises that had plagued the old unit. The initial test was a complete success, and my faith in Sierra International’s remanufacturing process was immediately validated.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full summer season of boating, the Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve used the boat in various conditions, from calm, sunny days to choppy, cooler evenings, and the starter has performed flawlessly every time. There are no signs of corrosion, and the starter motor continues to crank the engine with impressive speed and power.

I haven’t needed to perform any maintenance beyond inspecting the connections for tightness and corrosion, a routine task for any marine electrical system. The Sierra International 185917 has significantly outperformed the previous starter and given me peace of mind knowing that I can rely on it. My previous experiences with aftermarket starters had been hit-or-miss, but this remanufactured unit from Sierra International has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models

Specifications

• Mount: 3-Bolt. The 3-bolt mounting pattern is standard for many Ford V8 engines from the late 1960s through the 1990s, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of applications.

• Case Diameter: Late Style 4″ Diameter. The 4″ case diameter is a common dimension for these starters, further ensuring a direct fit replacement.

• Rotation: Use with Standard Rotation Engines. This starter is designed for use with standard rotation Ford V8 engines, which are the most common type.

• Solenoid: Use with Sierra’s 18-5801 Solenoid. Sierra International recommends using their specific solenoid to ensure proper operation and prevent potential electrical issues.

• Interchangeable: OMC Stern Drive 984628, MES 338M, and Arco 70116 and 70216. This interchangeability list helps confirm fitment and offers alternative part numbers.

These specifications are essential because they directly influence the starter’s compatibility and performance. A correct mount, case diameter, and rotation are crucial for proper installation. Using the recommended solenoid ensures proper voltage and amperage delivery, preventing premature failure.

Performance & Functionality

The Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models excels at its primary job: starting the engine quickly and reliably. The starter motor provides ample torque to crank the engine, even when cold or after extended periods of inactivity. There are no signs of hesitation or weakness, providing confident starts every time.

The starter’s strength is its consistent and reliable performance. The only potential weakness would be the dependence on the correct solenoid for optimal performance and longevity. The Sierra International 185917 meets and exceeds expectations for a remanufactured starter.

Design & Ergonomics

The Sierra International 185917 features a standard, robust design that is typical of Ford V8 starters. The remanufacturing process ensures that all components are thoroughly inspected and replaced as needed. The solid construction and relatively heavy weight inspire confidence in its durability.

The design is functional and straightforward, with no unnecessary frills. The remanufactured finish is clean and professional. There’s no learning curve involved; it’s a simple drop-in replacement for the original starter.

Durability & Maintenance

The Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models, given its robust design and Sierra International’s remanufacturing process, should last for many years. Proper installation and using the correct solenoid are crucial for maximizing its lifespan. Regular inspections of the electrical connections and occasional cleaning are recommended.

Maintenance should be minimal, primarily involving keeping the connections clean and tight. The Sierra International 185917 is designed for longevity, but access to internal components for repair might be limited due to its sealed construction.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models doesn’t offer many customization options, as it’s a remanufactured unit designed for a specific purpose. However, you can improve its performance and longevity by using high-quality battery cables and ensuring a clean, corrosion-free electrical system. As mentioned earlier, Sierra International recommends using their 18-5801 Solenoid for optimal performance.

The Sierra International 185917 is compatible with standard Ford V8 engine accessories and electrical systems. Aftermarket battery terminals and cable upgrades are readily available to enhance the starter’s performance and reliability.

Pros and Cons of Sierra International 185917 Re Manufactured Starter For Ford V8 Engines, Late Models