I have an 08 Ultra Classic. When I hit my start button, the starter motor just spins, it doesn't engage.
Is my entire starter bad, or is it simply a starter solenoid, and if it's the solenoid, is it on the end of the starter motor ??

Any help is appreciated.

Alan

 

starter clutch, HD sells one

at least youre's is the easiest bike to get the starter out on.

 

Be sure you post back what you find out. The solenoid is under that small cover on the starter on the right side on the starter. Think it's only $15 repair kit from Harley. The two L shaped copper contacts and washer. I personally would start there even if I replaced gear clutch. (it's a sprang clutch, and I guess it could jam out if the grease got too hot.

 

sorry double post

 

Piece of cake getting the starter out - (2) bolts. Be careful the positioning dowels don't fall into the primary.

Solenoid or starter clutch IMO.

The solenoid action can be tested with the starter out of the bike if you're very careful.

 

If it's spinning, the solenoid is probably fine. The starter clutch is the primary culprit.

 

All good gen. The starter clutch protects the electric start motor while the solenoid action throws the pinion gear into the ring gear, cranking the engine. If you take off the primary be extremely careful pulling on that starter pinion (don't!). What will happen is the starter will engage and that's with the ignition off!

 

Just to add another possibility, when my bike did this it was due to an e-clip that stops the jackshaft in line where it is supposed to engage. The e-clip broke, so the jackshaft shot past and just spun...something to think about.