Starter/Solenoid

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Nov 29, 2007 | 09:21 AM

BADCUDA

Thread Starter

6th Gear

Joined: Jul 2007

Posts: 12

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Starter/Solenoid

I have a stock 87 Heritage with starting problems. It has a fully charged battery, but I have to hit the Start
button many-many times to get the starter to engage. Once the clickfest is done, the bike cranks well
and starts. All lights are bright and bike runs great. Sounds like the solenoid is just clicking. I've changed the relay.
Some days it takes 30-40 clicks to get it to catch. Any ideas ???

Thanks

Nov 29, 2007 | 10:09 AM

underboss

Intermediate

Joined: Sep 2005

Posts: 36

Likes: 1

RE: Starter/Solenoid

I'd say the washer on the soleniod plunger is not making contact with the two lugs
that bridge the gap from the battery to the starter motor.

Nov 29, 2007 | 11:21 AM

BADCUDA

Thread Starter

6th Gear

Joined: Jul 2007

Posts: 12

Likes: 0

RE: Starter/Solenoid

Is that an easy fix or does that mean a new solenoid ?? I figure stuff is going to start going bad, 20 years
old but only 11k miles.

Thanks

Nov 29, 2007 | 12:30 PM

underboss

Intermediate

Joined: Sep 2005

Posts: 36

Likes: 1

RE: Starter/Solenoid

You can rebuild a solenoid - there are kits that consist of a new washer and lugs. I'm not sure what else is in the kit, maybe a new spring. A solenoid will cost probably $60-$80.
Or take it apart, turn the washer over, make sure the plunger moves freely inside and put it back together.