Angier:

I don't think it is the starter.  You need to check all the electrical
connections between the battery and the starter.  You are losing current
somewhere.  Sky-Tec starters are certified for the big 6 and 8 cylinder
engines so yours should have no trouble with an IO-360.

Best regards, Pete Field
LNC2, IO-390 with a Sky-Tec

-----Original Message-----
From: Greenbacks, UnLtd. [mailto:N4ZQ@VERIZON.NET] Sent: Sunday, December 08, 2013 9:02 AM
To: List Lancair Mailing
Subject: Sky-Tec starter

My Lycoming IO360 180hp was delivered with a Sky-Tec starter and I'm
beginning to wonder about possible failure modes. Can they slowly lose their
ability to produce torque over time? I had two Odyessey batteries that were
at least four years old when the engine was first started and either battery
would spin the prop so fast it was a blur.
Slowly over time the prop would turn over more slowly. It would not stop on
the first compression stroke but would slow down significantly. The
batteries tested OK but I replaced them all the same. I am still
experiencing the same condition so am beginning to focus on the starter.

Suggestions?

Thanks,

Angier Ames
N4ZQ
92hrs