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?

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.

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)

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