I think my starter solenoid quit without two weeks notice...

Hi guys, and it's been awhile!

I had a busy riding season, after the work from last season, my bike was running like a dream! Except a handful of issues starting. The biggest one now I suspect is the starter solenoid, but before I buy any parts, it's always good to get a second opinion!

So here's the symptoms...
When I try to start the bike, the headlight goes out, but the starter will not turn. (So I assume it's not the button). Upon release of the button, I can hear a small click. So after some digging, it seems like the click is coming from the solenoid. I check all of the connections for corrosion and they were clean. Any ideas?

Also, last year, I replaced the fuses with inline fuses, but I checked them all and none had been tripped.

Thanks!

-elGato

 

you could try jumping the solenoid terminals first? if starter motor starts to spin could just be faulty solenoid? best to use an old screwdriver black and sooty new ones don't look to good!

 

Thanks! I did jump it and it started right up!

That helps, I just wish my starter clutch wasn't also going bad, it makes for a sad day.

 

Don't assume your starter clutch is going bad. A bad solenoid or sluggish starter can produce misleading symptoms. I'm going to assume you're not running automotive or synthetic oil.

 

Nope!

I've asked about it before, and I have the correct oil. I saw a post awhile back where the bike had the same symptoms as mine, starts cold fine, but when hot there's no dice. I have a second starter from an old friend that I want to test and see how that plays out.

Are there rebuild kits for starters? (I can add it to my list of projects )

 

Of course there are. You know who to ask.

 

haha... I should have looked

I think I am going to replace/rebuild the starter as well as the solenoid. I think that's my last step to either fix or narrow the issue down to the starter clutch.