Starter alternative

[ngoma]

The factory Hitachi starters were a tradeoff. Light weight and compact size vs. reduced service level. They work fine but will burn up from extended cranking periods, as when run out of fuel, or other misc. hard start conditions.

Unlike the lightweight aluminum 740 hood in compensation for the heavier diesel block, it doesn't make much sense to try to save weight with a less robust starter, especially in a diesel.

The larger replacements (AC Delco, Bosch, etc) are harder to fit because of their size and weight but more resistant to extended (heat-producing) cranking periods.