Reviving Anna: Replacing the Starter Motor and Alternator on a Lister 2 Cylinder Diesel Engine

Steve Basuino • 12 December 2023

As the sun gently kisses the historic Amsterdam canals, a familiar sight graces the water – the small sloop named 'Anna', silently gliding through the picturesque waterways.

But recently, Anna's serene journey hit a snag when her faithful heart, the Lister 2 cylinder diesel engine, refused to awaken. Enter Steve's Mobile Boat Service, the beacon of hope for boat owners in distress.


Lister Petter's legacy dates back to 1867 when Robert Ashton Lister laid the foundation of an empire destined to revolutionise the diesel engine industry. Fast forward to a serene afternoon in Amsterdam, and the echoes of that legacy resonate in the form of 'Anna', powered by a Lister Petter engine born 62 years after the company's inception.


When Anna's engine fell silent, her distressed owner reached out to Steve's Mobile Boat Service. Upon inspection, the diagnosis was clear – the starter motor had reached the end of its journey. However, this was not the only hurdle; a deeper investigation revealed that Anna's alternator had also succumbed to the passage of time, failing in its duty to replenish the battery.


Undeterred by the challenge, Steve's Mobile Boat Service sprung into action. Armed with expertise honed through years of experience and a deep understanding of marine engines, the team swiftly procured the necessary parts and embarked on the journey to revive Anna.


Replacing the starter motor was the first order of business. With meticulous care and precision, the old motor was gently removed, making way for its modern counterpart. As the new starter motor found its home in Anna's engine bay, anticipation filled the air, eager to hear the familiar hum of the diesel engine once more.


With the starter motor installed, attention turned to the alternator. Like a symphony conductor orchestrating a masterpiece, Steve's skilled hands carefully disassembled the old alternator, making room for the new one. As the final bolt tightened, a sense of satisfaction permeated the air – Anna was one step closer to reclaiming her place on the Amsterdam waters.


True to his reputation for efficiency and excellence, Steve's Mobile Boat Service completed the repairs in record time. With the gentle hum of the Lister engine resonating once more, Anna continued her voyage.


The story of Anna's revival serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Lister Petter and the unwavering dedication of Steve's Mobile Boat Service. In a world where time waits for no one, these guardians of the waters ensure that every vessel, no matter how weathered, can continue its journey with pride.


As the sun sets on another day in Amsterdam, Anna sails into the horizon, a symbol of resilience and restoration. And amidst the tranquil waters of the canals, the echoes of a bygone era mingle with the promise of new beginnings, reminding us that every journey, no matter how challenging, is worth embarking upon.

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