Molly Ayala
Converting outboard motors to electric start is an interesting project, especially for vintage outboards. The majority of outboard motors are gasoline-powered and attached to the stern of the boat. Converting to electric can be challenging, and one must consider the cost and complexity of electric propulsion systems. Conversion kits are available for some engines, but they tend to be expensive. It is important to assess the specific engine and its components, such as the starter, flywheel, stator, and solenoid, to determine the necessary modifications and additional parts required for a successful conversion.
Characteristics and their values for converting an outboard to an electric start
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Engine | Gasoline engine with a vertical shaft |
| Gearbox | Right-angle gearbox with a propeller |
| Engine replacement | A simple job in theory |
| Electric motor | 1 kW 48 V brushless |
| Control system | Nextion color touch screen and Arduino Nano |
| Jet ski power | Requires more than 1 kW |
| Conversion kits | Available for some engines, but not cheap |
| Conversion complexity | Non-trivial |
| Starter | Available for $100 |
| Flywheel | Pricey |
| Stator | Required |
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What You'll Learn
- Conversion kits for electric start outboard motors are available, but they are expensive
- You can use an electric drill attachment to convert a pull cord start outboard motor to electric start
- Converting a gasoline boat to electric is rare, but it may become more common as costs decrease
- A conversion may require a starter, flywheel, and solenoid
- You can use a socket and drill on the crankshaft to start the outboard motor
Conversion kits for electric start outboard motors are available, but they are expensive
OZ WIDE STARTERS, Australia's only manufacturer of Electric Start Conversion Kits for outboard engines, has been developing and building new kits for outboards since 2015. Their kits are designed to convert a manual start tiller steer outboard to a fully functional electric start tiller steer. Each kit contains a new starter motor, starter mounting bracket, new starter solenoid, neutral safety switch, switch mounting bracket, new or remanufactured flywheel, start button, inline fuse, and a new regulator/rectifier to charge the battery. Notably, their kits do not include a battery. OZ WIDE STARTERS also mentions that their kits take between 60 and 90 minutes to install and can be installed by anyone with moderate mechanical capabilities, although they recommend a marine mechanic for the job.
Another company, Eclass Outboards, offers electric retrofit kit options for outboarding motors, claiming that their kits will save customers thousands of dollars while providing a quiet, emission-free boating experience with minimal maintenance. They also highlight the environmental benefits of their kits, as they give old outboards a second life and prevent the casing from ending up in landfills.
While conversion kits offer a convenient way to switch to electric start outboard motors, the process can also be achieved through other methods. For instance, an individual named Olly shared their experience of electrifying a vintage outboard motor on Hackaday. Olly removed the old gas engine from the outboard and designed an adapter plate to mount a 1 kW 48 V brushless electric motor in its place. Additionally, some forum users on YBW Forum have suggested using an electric drill attachment as a possible conversion method for smaller engines. However, it is important to note that the complexity and cost of such conversions can vary, and they may not always be trivial or inexpensive.
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You can use an electric drill attachment to convert a pull cord start outboard motor to electric start
Converting a pull cord start outboard motor to electric start is possible, and one way to do it is by using an electric drill attachment. This method has been used on other small engines, such as lawn mowers, and can be achieved with a few tools.
One way to go about this is to use a drill that spins at 550 RPM to start the engine. As the engine starts to spin faster than the drill, it will "throw" the socket off. To ensure control of the drill, an 8" piece of 1/2 pipe can be attached to one side, and a "T" handle to the other. It is important to maintain a good grip on the drill during this process.
Another method is to use a drill with a rubber attachment that screws into the crank. Northern Tool offers a universal adapter for this purpose. This method is simple to install and has been known to work for several years. However, it may not be suitable for diesel engines, as the rubber can be torn off by the drill's action.
For those with an engineering background, it is worth noting that electric starters on small scooters may also be considered for this conversion.
While it is possible to use an electric drill attachment for this conversion, there are also proper conversion kits available for purchase. These kits can be costly, but with some research and knowledge of the outboard's make and model, it may be possible to source the individual parts separately at a lower cost.
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Converting a gasoline boat to electric is rare, but it may become more common as costs decrease
Converting a gasoline boat to an electric motor is rare, but as costs decrease, it may become more common. The process can be complex and expensive, but it offers benefits such as improved environmental sustainability, lower maintenance costs, and quieter operation.
The first step in converting to an electric motor is evaluating the boat's electrical system and ensuring it can support the new motor. This includes considering the battery bank capacity and the number of batteries required, as well as their type. Lithium-ion batteries are a popular choice due to their efficiency, long lifespan, and lightweight nature. The number of batteries will depend on the motor's size and power requirements, as well as the need to power any accessories, appliances, and electronics onboard.
The next step is to choose a compatible electric motor. Factors such as horsepower, torque, efficiency, weight, and size must be considered. It is also essential to ensure that the motor is designed for marine use. Once the electric motor, battery bank, and charging system are installed, testing and adjusting are crucial to ensure proper functioning.
Converting an outboard motor to electric start can be challenging. While some smaller engines may be started with an electric drill attachment, conversion kits are generally required for larger engines, and these can be expensive. It may be easier to opt for a smaller outboard or even an inboard-powered tender.
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A conversion may require a starter, flywheel, and solenoid
Converting an outboard motor from a pull cord start to electric start is possible, but it is not a trivial task. Conversion kits are available for some outboard motors, but they are not cheap. For example, a user on a boating forum stated that they were able to find a starter for $100 and a used flywheel for the same price, but they also needed a new stator, which was harder to find.
In addition to the starter, flywheel, and solenoid, other components that may be needed for the conversion include a starter battery, a key ignition, a starter bracket, and a stater to charge the battery. It is important to note that the specific components required may vary depending on the make and model of the outboard motor, so it is essential to consult a qualified technician or mechanic before attempting any conversion.
When considering a conversion, it is worth noting that the complexity and cost of powerful electric propulsion systems are decreasing, making such projects more feasible. Additionally, electric propulsion systems offer advantages in terms of reduced maintenance and lower operating costs compared to gasoline-powered engines.
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You can use a socket and drill on the crankshaft to start the outboard motor
Using a socket and drill on the crankshaft is a possible method to start an outboard motor. This method is especially useful if the pull rope on your outboard motor is broken.
To do this, you will need access to the crankshaft bolt on the front of your engine. You can then put a socket on the crankshaft and attach a drill to the socket. It is recommended to use a mains-powered drill, as cordless drills may not have sufficient power to start the outboard motor.
However, there are some safety concerns with this method. One concern is how to disconnect the socket and drill once the motor is started. If the socket remains on the nut, it may be challenging to remove it while the flywheel is turning. If the socket kicks off the nut, it could potentially break your wrist. Therefore, it is advised to use a one-way clutch bearing to allow the socket and drill to disengage before causing any harm.
Another concern is the potential for a broken wrist due to the crankshaft's powerful torque. To mitigate this risk, ensure that you have a clear space around you when attempting to start the motor and always exercise caution when using power tools.
Overall, using a socket and drill on the crankshaft can be an effective way to start an outboard motor, but it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe operation.
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Frequently asked questions
An outboard motor consists of a gasoline engine with a vertical shaft that is coupled to a right-angle gearbox with a propeller on the end.
You will need a starter, a starter battery, a key ignition, a starter flywheel, a starter bracket, and a stater to charge the battery.
You may also need a solenoid, a new stator, and a flywheel to match the starter.
Yes, conversion kits are available for some outboard motors, especially for larger engines. However, they tend to be expensive.
Yes, you can use an electric drill attachment, which works on other small engines. Alternatively, you can look into electric starters used in small scooters or lawnmowers.
