starter problem too!

[bakenath]

I think my starter is going out too. This problem is getting worse each time I start now. The starter turns well but doesnt enagage the engine until I release the start switch. The starter slows down then sudennly grabs and I have to time it just right to hit the start switch again for it to start up. This sucks when its really cold and it takes 10-20 tries in order to get her running. Once warmed up its not so bad. But between this and my problem with the kick stand kill switch i talked about in my last post I was at work for 20 minutes trying to get her going so i could get home. That day really sucked.
Nathan

[mro]

Starter "clutch" seems to be having issues
I've not yet had that problem, but from what I've read you will have to split the cases to get to it.

Out a curiosity, what kind of oil you using and
do you have any problem with shifting etc..??


mro

[jeffe]

Type and/ or age of the oil will effect Yamaha starters. Synthetic seems to not work well in old Yamahas. Personaaly always have used 20/50 Castrol except in cold weather. Then 10/30. Also you might want to check the directions on a can of Seafoam about use in the oil. You add a little to the crankcase, let it run for a bit, and then drain. On my old 78 it was amazing how it darkened the oil I drained out of it. Usually the oil would not be very dirty after 3k miles. But after usin the Seafoam just one time it was much darker from all the gunk it broke lose. I noticed much better clutch action and I would not be suprised if it made you starter clutch work better. Just be sure and follow the directions and not put much load on the engine with it in there. Just my 2 cents.

[fredintoon]

Hi Nathan,
same nonsense with mine when I tried to start after being parked all winter. Turns out that despite an occasional charger hookup over the winter months the battery was kinda low. 24 hours on the battery charger and the problem went away. Try an overnight battery charge before splitting your cases.

[xs650mike]

Hi Fred, glad your problem is cured.

mro had a question about oil. I've been using Shell Rotella 15w40 for quite a few changes and it made my slipping clutch go away, heard about it on the XS650 list. Shifting is slick too. This is diesel tractor oil and designed for wet clutches. Cheap too, about $2 a quart at Walmart. I buy it in gallon containers. Hey Mike, when're you going to make it up to Lake County? Fall foliage is peaking right now.

[bakenath]

oil and battery charge

thanks for the replies guyz.
I will giver a good battery charge (probably low anyways from all the starter attempts). I use castrol 20w50 the good stuff i find in the motorcycle section of my local walmart. I will definately try another oil change and a battery charge before breaking into the case. I wont be able to do it until next week so i will keep checking back for more tips and advice and I'll let you guys know how things went.
Nathan

[mro]

when're you going to make it up to Lake County?
Life just keeps getting in the way
Glad to see your still kicking
Would love to be present when your jam'in some where


mro

[81xsproject]

When mro makes it up, I'll do my best to make it down

[DiverRay]

MRO, I may have a SUNDAY free. Let me know if you go up to see mike, I'll try to ride with you.