Boat issues possible transmission

I'm hoping there is someone here more mechanically more inclided then myself. So I've run into this issue recently when I try to start my boat (2005 centurion lightening) I'll turn the key and it sounds like it is trying to turn over for a few seconds then will make a very unpleasant noise, so I'll stop then try again while giving it a little gas while turning the key and it starts no issues (normally).

Second concern - if I put it in gear going no wake speed without allowing proper warm up time there is a clicking noise coming from the engine/trans area but once the engine is warm the noise stops (again, normally). With all of this the boat runs perfect, all gauges are normal but I have heard that the marina I get gas has a reputation for providing bad gas which may be causing some of the issues.

I'd greatly appriciate some input or if anyone has or has bad similar issues. Thanks!

probably the starter

I believe you have a cracked damper drive plate (ie: flywheel)


Does this sound familiar>> http://www.themalibucrew.com/forums/...ing-in-08-vlx/

you can pull the center wire off the distributor (so that it doesn't start) and turn it over until it makes the "unpleasant sound" then let go of the key. pull your starter off and you should be able to see if your flywheel is damaged. may have to rotate the engine a bit to find the spot. pull the plugs to make it easier to turn it over by hand

Without hearing the noises firsthand, I couldn't begin to tell you what is wrong with it based off of your description. Your 1st concern: what type of noise is it? Is it a grinding sound, whirring.... ect? If it is a grinding sound, your bendix on the starter could be sticking or you could have a bad spot on your flywheel. If its a knocking noise, it could be too much initial timing for the grade of gas you are using, but highly unlikely that scenario. Your 2nd concern: what type of transmission do you have? If its a ZF hurth trans v-drive single unit, they are notorious to tick or rattle while idling in gear. There is nothing wrong with that aspect. If its a trans with a V-drive bolted on, again without specific noises and specific location, its extremely hard to diagnose based on your description.