Many, many thanks to all of you who so kindly responded to my recent message and provided lots of good advice. Following it, the foremost problem has been solved. First off one battery was simply not producing the necessary amps, and although only five years old, it has been replaced. The second move was to take the 15 year old starter off, send it to a local small shop expert in the field, and he replaced the solenoid, brushes, and cleaned off some corrosion and sent it back - three day turnaround. The starter may have been all right, but with this kind of service I didn't want to fool with it. Ergo I am back in the sailing business, and most appreciative of all of your help.
The oil leak will continue closely watched, with a decision on pulling the engine when hauling out time comes along.
Thanks again. Ann
aewebster@earthlink.net
MD7A - problem solved
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