Just took off the primary to get a look at the starter on a 1983 lowrider I just picked up. Starter isn’t engaging and seems to be dancing around. Any suggestions insights on this.

Here’s a video

let me know what you think I’m new on here first post

 

K...in order for the starter to engage the clutch hub properly, the outer primary needs to attached. There is a copper washer that goes on the end before you put the cover on as well.

When you hit the starter button the elcetrical system activates the solenoid which activates the bendix gear pushing it out over your clutch hub. The end of the gear is driven into the end of your outer cover (there is a needle bearing in the cover). With the outer primary cover on there is no "bouncing", just a straight push.

 

gotta have to outer cover on it bro it lines it all up and makes it engage

 

yeah don't forget the rear needle bearings in the starter housing they can mess up your day for real

 

No Service manual we must assume..

 

my Shovel sounds like its doing this with the primary cover on.

 

Some folks make a tool out of a broken outer primary. They keep the starter shaft support area and a few screw holes to mount it up so that you can see what the starter shaft / Bendix are doing. Search You tube.

 

If you do Not do This
You are lost...and cannot be found!!!
Never heard of anyone trying to operate starter with shaft running wild!!!

 

Well, now that you have seen it you can't say that anymore!

 

some cut up an old ptimary and use the starter boss permanently with an open belt primary