"Roger Long" wrote in message
.. .
Are you sure your engine is set up for hand starting?

Yes, I saw the crank. It's the raw water cooled version. I have the
service manual and it shows a hand crank setup for the fresh water version
as well.

I hear from another source that it's a rather athletic undertaking and a
second person to close the compression release is a necessity.

Once the compression levers are opened, an 8 year old can crank it. You
don't
need another person to handle the levers since they lock in the open
position.
Just get it spinning and reach up and close one lever. Then throw the other
lever(s). I started my 3HM30 and 3GM30 this way several times. You can
also start them using a string of a few D-cells.

Also heard from another owner of the same boat who has run it exactly the
way I describe for 17 years without a problem. I think I'll just leave
the battery switch on boat all the time.

--

Roger Long