Campbell45 Posted November 30, 2009 Share Posted November 30, 2009 I have a 1978 xs400 and the starter is not engaging. It spins the sprockets fine but it is not engaging with the engine. However when I use the kick start it turns the engine fine. The kick start is hard to get it to turn over too. I think I will change the oil and see if that helps with kick start. What should I do about the starter? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
duaneage Posted November 30, 2009 Share Posted November 30, 2009 I have a 1978 xs400 and the starter is not engaging. It spins the sprockets fine but it is not engaging with the engine. However when I use the kick start it turns the engine fine. The kick start is hard to get it to turn over too. I think I will change the oil and see if that helps with kick start. What should I do about the starter? Either the chain inside the stator cover is broken or the starter clutch on the crankshaft is bad. Either way you need to get a gasket for the stator cover and take a look. You probably need a special tool to remover the rotor and get to the stator clutch, It's possible that someone pulled the starter out and the gear/chain dropped inside the cover. Either way it's going to need a look inside. I don't think an oil change is going to make much of a difference with kick starting. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Speedshop Posted November 30, 2009 Share Posted November 30, 2009 When something isn't working right forcing it is rarely the answer! (nor is pretending that a changing the oil is the mechanical equivilent to a trip to Loudes) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Campbell45 Posted November 30, 2009 Author Share Posted November 30, 2009 I took the cover off and the starter spins the chain fine (the chain is not broken) I think its the starter clutch you mentioned. I will have to see if I can get to it or not Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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