81 650 Starting Problem?

I don't know if this is normal or not.

When starting my 81 XJ650 Maxim, it takes about 2 seconds for the starter to respond after pushing the button. If it doesn't start right away, each button push takes a little longer than the last until finally after 4 or so pushes, nothing at all happens. If it sits for a minutes the starter will turn again.

I don't know if this is a built in "safety" feature for the starter or if something is wrong. I took apart the starter button and kill switch and made sure all the contacts are good and clean. I don't know where to look next.

Thanks.

 

When I did have my 650 (same year) running and used as my daily rider couple years ago, this similar situation happened to me quite often. I always thought the gremlins didn't want me to fire up the bike; joking aside I'm curious what the possibilities could be as well. Sorry not much help; I just ignored it since I figured the starter was fine.

I'll be waiting for responses as well, since I never took the courage to ask.

 

If it's not the button, or a handlebar grounding issue, then the next place I'd look would be the solenoid, followed by the starter itself.

Assuming a fully charged and tested-good battery, that is.

 

Yeah the battery is fully charged and relatively new. Ill check the solenoid later tonight when it cools off a bit.

 

DO NOT simply assume it's "fine." Get it fully charged and have the auto parts store load test it. You might be surprised.

 

Yep did that a few weeks ago. Everything is good as far as the battery is concerned. Is there a relay somewhere for the starter I should also check? I was out there a few minutes ago for something else and started it. I noticed a click like a relay when it started but when it wouldnt start I heard nothing.

 

My 650 always had a lag...... never was an issue, I knew what it would do, and never had a problem. For me, it was that the button was wearing out.

Dave F