Removing Cams - Question

[Radioguylogs]

Thanks for your help bikerphil.

I do believe the starter clutch can be removed without removing the head, but the problem for me is how to get the engine out of the frame. I am considering laying the bike on the side and lifting off the frame, but I am not sure yet. The job would be more manageable if I just stripped the engine before removing it.

I didn't try running the bike with the other starter. I don't think there is any point. I can feel the original starter is OK and I can feel the clutch is sticking when it shouldn't be sticking. I can confirm a normal clutch doesn't stick. Seems conclusive. Maybe I am missing what you are thinking.

[jetmechmarty]

Hey Mike! Do you have a young strong friend or neighbor? I had great success with the son-in-law engine removal method. I don’t think it’s too bad for two people possessing a reasonable amount of strength.

[DiverRay]

I've pulled and put in an engine with the "frame lift" method and had no problems. I DO have an engine hoist to lift and lower the frame and that helps a LOT.

[bikerphil]

I didn't try running the bike with the other starter. I don't think there is any point. I can feel the original starter is OK and I can feel the clutch is sticking when it shouldn't be sticking. I can confirm a normal clutch doesn't stick. Seems conclusive. Maybe I am missing what you are thinking

Sorry, I missed the part where you rocked the bike and confirmed the starter clutch was stuck. What I was thinking is that these starters can make some disturbing noises when they need lubrication.

[cajun31]

What kind of oil do you use and what kind of oil has been used in it. There is much out there concerning using non motorcycle oil in motorcycles and how excessive sludge can form. The only reason I ask is because it might be a source of the problem. Over time if sludge has formed and infiltrated the starter clutch it may be causing things to stick. If that is the case and I mean what do you really have to lose at this point other than splitting the cases for a closer look. Before doing that, I would drain all the oil out of it and then fill up the crankcase with kerosene. Remove the spark plug wires from the plugs to make sure there is no chance the bike can start then crank the engine over several times to circulate the kerosene into everything. Let it sit like that for a few days, maybe cranking again every day. Then drain the kerosene and inspect to see if anything loosened or let go. If that proves to be successful, then you will need to change the oil a few times with cheap oil to get all the kerosene out. Might be some better alternatives to kerosene out there but I would think that it would be the cheapest. I had an old mechanic years ago tell us he did that to his car engines after so many oil changes to keep the insides clean. Really though what do have to lose?