1983 XJ650 Starter Issue

[Opalotype]

Hello. My 1983 xj650 Maxim makes a terrible noise when you turn it over. It’s like a grinding noise and I believe it’s that starter.
I was seeing some people taking about splitting the engine cases in order to get in there and actually fix anything. Is this true.
Any information would be helpful.

[DEEBS11]

Might be the starter clutch. You need to look at a shop manual (not the small owners maunual)

https://www.ebay.com/itm/30570737384...Bk9SR468_qnGZA

[DEEBS11]

Your issue would still need to be properly diagnosed but in the event that it is a starter clutch.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/15569439457...Bk9SR7CTrKrGZA

[LAB3]

Can't say I know for sure but my 83 Goldwing had a similar issue, the "fix" was hitting the start button very briefly with the engine running to free up the starter clutch. Not sure if this applies to Yamaha but if the starter clutch is already going bad it probably wouldn't hurt much.

[jetmechmarty]

There’s a good forum at XJBikes.com. FYI

[speedlimit85]

First use conventional oil instead of synthetic. Try changing the spark plug gap to the smallest gap. If the bike starts before the starter clutch slips, you're good.

[skids]

Mine does it after riding it for a while. I have found that the starter clutch grabs better if I start it while in neutral rather than just pulling the clutch lever.