after market starter

[Rbyham]

I am looking at a rebuild of an A4 starter but see several aftermarkets being offered for right around $100. A rebuild would cost at least that much. Anyone using the aftermarket versus original starters? Can anyone speak to reliability and how to identify an aftermarket that will fit? Thanks.

[joe_db]

Is the aftermarket starter marine rated? I have to say the A4 starter seems quite over-engineered for a 60 cubic inch engine. Fixing the stock one would probably last you decades.

[Al Schober]

IMHO, the only weak link in the stock starter are the brush springs. These springs will corrode, then brush contact with the commutator gets iffy.

[ndutton]

Is the after market starter ignition proof??? That's seriously important.

[edwardc]

MMI sells the special solenoid gasket needed for ignition proofing. I believe this may be the only difference, but am not positive.