Hi,
I have posted before but I own a 1968 sportster xlh. I had a starting problem before but it was because of a dead battery but here recently I have had problems with the starter gear staying engaged on the flywheel to crank the motor. Pretty much when I hit the starter button I hear the starter gear come out and engage the flywheel and it will crank the engine for about 1 to 2 seconds then I hear a loud grinding noise or it will disengage from the flywheel completely and keep spinning and once I let off the starter button it sounds like there is a rattling sound with the gear is still spinning, has anyone else had the problem with their bike or know a fix? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Also besides the new battery it has a brand new solenoid as well.

 

A common cause is the battery being low on charge or otherwise not good enough. A good test is to first fully charge the battery, then try again with the voltmeter connected to the battery. If the reading falls below 10.5 volts then the battery is no good.

 

Well the volts dropped to 9.98 volts during cranking so I think I found the problem

 

i have had so many people and dealers swear that 67-69 electric start sportys never existed..i had one with a block off plate at the starter,so it was kick only.. if it isnt from the volts dropping, check the clutch gear and the gear that pops out and drives it.. i have had both fail before. the teeth get sharp, and the one way clutch in the starter gear fails.

 

Ok I will definately check that too thanks for the advice