Looking for lightweight starter motor options

[Superfry]

I'm working on a weight reduction contract for a military generator set. I'd like to replace the current 8.5lb starter with one of about half the weight. I've seen lots of planetary gear reduction starters for cars (racing V8s mainly) which weight down to about 8lbs. I just need to start a 200cc single cylinder diesel. Apparently, there isn't much of a demand for lightweight starters for small engines.
Anyone have any suggestions as to where I can look or companies that may make these?
Thanks,
Anthony

 

[dpc]

What about a motorcycle starter?

 

[Superfry]

Being a rider myself, I actually thought of this.
Here are the differences between a motorcycle starter and one I need - 12V vs 24V, motorcycles use always engaged starter clutches whereas this is a solenoid. But I think I will do some research to find what companies make starter motors for motorcycle companies as we can probably work around these differences. I saw a starter on a new KTM dirtbike that weighed less than 2lbs.
Thanks.

 

[dpc]

24v dc will be a problem for anything small and light that is in the commercial market. If you are buying enough of them, the motorcycle starter folks might make you one. Of course, I used to use 12v on a 6v VW starter when the weather was cold - it cranked right up.

 

[nbucska]

Did you think about lifting the valves until up to speed?


<nbucska@pcperipherals.com>

 

[jbartos]

Suggestion: A DC-DC converter may be used to convert 24VDC to 12VDC. The DC-DC converters tend to be not so heavy.

 

[sreid]

Two thoughs;

1)A custom designed rare earth DC motor with a gear reduction. There may be a weight savings here for a variety of reasons.

2) Use an inverter and start the engine using the generator as the starter motor.

 

[jbartos]

Suggestion: Visit

http://www.thomasregister.com

and type Starters: Automotive Engine under Product or Service, which will return 37 companies to approach to,
or type Starters: Diesel Engine under Product or Service, which will return 19 companies to approach to