Hog won't start

[Patriot]

Could anyone tell me the problem with my bike.I have been having trouble with my starter or my solenoid.I push the start switch and all that happens is a lot of clicking in the solenoid area.I had pulled off the solenoid and pushed the plunger manually and the bike started engaging the starter.Unfortunately this doesnt happen when it is mounted to the bike,just a lot of click click noises.Muc appreciated if anyone can give me some clues as to what my dilemma is.

[cowpoos]

It doesn't sound like theres enough current is getting through...take earth off and give it a quick wire brushing/sanding and put back on frame...and make sure positive has good contact points...failing that it may be your battrie is nearing the end of its life span...as they get older cold cranking amps can reduce...even if well looked after and maintianed [and keeping a full charge!!]

[riffer]

Do you have a fuse in the starter relay? If it's blown this could do it.

[Waylander]

Check the starter clutch.

[shafty]

Low battery

[Patriot]

Not sure where the fuse is mate ,all the lights are ok

[Patriot]

Check the starter clutch.

Is this done by removing the starter or can I check it by pulling the primary cover off

[bmz2]

Before you go to far, check battery terminals , and battery , then check earths leads, then check solenoid cap for cracks , this will lead to low current draw for the starter.

[Waylander]

Is this done by removing the starter or can I check it by pulling the primary cover off
Not sure about on your bike. And can't find a parts schematic so best try the other suggestions then if it keeps up, take it to the shop.

But both my Virago and Vmax were doing what you're describing and that was the problem.

[Patriot]

Before you go to far, check battery terminals , and battery , then check earths leads, then check solenoid cap for cracks , this will lead to low current draw for the starter.

Solenoid cap does have a crack which I had super glued back together. I do have a repair kit for the solenoid .The new cap I will put on come morning .The kit contains a cap ,copper contact washer,plastic seat, brass plate,screws,2 copper bolts and a stainless steel wire coiled at one end roughly 50 mm long and I wouldnt have a clue where this wire goes in the solenoid.I decided to do away with the brass plate for the short copper bolt and tried to solder the wire directly to the bolt with solder and solder stick but it is not sticking.I thought that the copper contact washer may be touching the brass plate.I noticed some signs of heat on surface between the copper bolts and contact washer.Got fed up with it and came inside to to ask for help from Kiwi Biker.Plod on in the morning with gusto and GRRRRr. CHEERS

[The Lone Rider]

If you think it is solely an electrical problem, it MIGHT be cheaper to take it to an automotive electrician.

I had a similar problem on one of my bikes and it was a combination of bad wiring, low battery, dodgey electrical plug, and dirty sparks. Auto electrician fixed that all up for me for about $100.

[Shadows]

Is this done by removing the starter or can I check it by pulling the primary cover off


Not sure about on your bike. And can't find a parts schematic so best try the other suggestions then if it keeps up, take it to the shop.

But both my Virago and Vmax were doing what you're describing and that was the problem.

If manually tripping the solenoid did it then the starter clutch probably isn't the problem. My money is on the battery, connections, or the solenoid. After all connections are checked a successful jump start should eliminate a problem with the solenoid.

To check the starter clutch will involve removal of the primary cover if its anything like my sporty. They're about $100.

[Kittyhawk]

Hmm kickit swear at it and try starting it....dont work?

Yep electrics have a fault somewhere, I had the problem on an old gsxr 250, turns out a new fuse and battery were needed...

It also happend on my zx6r...that too needed a new battery, and no before its been thought of, yes I did always take the keys out, put killswitch on, and made sure entire bike was shut down...

Was the rebooting which was the problem.

[awayatc]

If manually tripping the solenoid did it then the starter clutch probably isn't the problem. My money is on the battery, connections, or the solenoid. After all connections are checked a successful jump start should eliminate a problem with the solenoid.
.

Agree completely...My 2 cts worth: To troubleshoot eliminate what is and isn't wrong....Use a set of jumperleads to help you sus out a few mayhapses :
With leads hook up 2 other battery..
earth the starter with a single lead directly to battery- /good earth...
To eliminate wiring problems hook a positive wire from battery directly on to positive on solenoid....
Solenoid engages starter that has fat electrical cable hooked up permanently....so you can hook up jumperlead directly from battery to starter...

Hopefully this ( and you good night of sleep) will help you finding out what is and isn't working properly
Good luck

[Patriot]

Thanks all for your opinion and I am ready to attempt another day with my hog in the garage" fixing it".Let you all know my outcome later in the evening.
"Live to Ride",,,,Patriot

[Edbear]

Well, what a surprise! You posted on KB about a problem with a Harley and got nothing but sensible replies!!!

Well done!


(PS. I have nothing against Harley's myself).

[cowpoos]

Well, what a surprise! You posted on KB about a problem with a Harley and got nothing but sensible replies!!!

Well done!


(PS. I have nothing against Harley's myself).
I was tempted...don't you worrie...must have been the xmas,new years spirt thing going on!! lol