DOC HARLEY: STARTER MOTOR WHAT WEARS OUT

Doc Harley from the Service Clinic at Low Country Harley-Davidson to help you with the health of your motorcycle. This week he talks about the parts of a starter motor that wear out over time.

[@ardyrides834]

Excellent motorcycle service video. I wish all the amateur youtubers out there would study "Doc Harley" videos in order to learn how to upload a good quality video... (not too long, not repeating everything said, limited use of profanity, no obnoxious music, knowing what to say before starting the camera, perhaps a script to follow, having props ready, using a tripod or camera assistant, proper lighting. And, taking the time to edit your video properly before uploading. Have a great day everyone!

[@vannigiovannigio8861]

Short but, long enough to clearly get the vital information to us viewers. Me and the diy community thank you Doc.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for watching and support….Doc

[@edwarner3826]

Doc, don't care what the subject, you always make it more interesting. As always, good job!

[@Jockstrap716]

Doc! I never thought that I would appreciate owner a Harley until I started listen to you explain how it all works even though I will still allow the Harley dealership to continue servicing my bike, it is wonderful to finally understand what is wrong with my bike and why the repairs are necessary which makes me love owning my Harley Davison and extremely proud to be riding one!!! Thanks

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Your welcome Robert….Doc

[@stlchuckhd]

Thank you for these short tech tip videos Doc! Clear and concise explanations. I rebuilt the starter for my 07 Road Glide over four years ago using my H-D service manual; still going strong. 🇺🇸

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you….Doc

[@vannigiovannigio8861]

Man that's honestly all you need. The HD manual, tools and patients.

[@JCcanU]

I know I seen this one when it first come out . Funny how I said my Battery Died and the starter died in the same week this come up in my feed . Still a Great Video after 4 years Doc .

[@kennethwise7108]

Hard to believe that my 1998 Road Glide with 150,000 miles on it still retains its original starter.

[@Kevin_747]

Don't cheap out on the starter clutch. I did and got to do the job twice. Stay with OEM parts. Good explanation from Doc.

[@agentorange3927]

Great job on the video, it was very informative and helped me fix my own bike. Thanks, Dr. Harley.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Glad it helped….Doc

[@EgsmithEgjohn]

I can't say how top-notch your content is. If you could put part links to parts and tools, etc.. Thank you to doc harley from all of us for what you got us through

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Interesting idea. Maybe one day our production can advance this way…Doc

[@RubenMartinez-cb9tg]

Hi Doc!! I am a Biker from and living in México City. English Is my second landwich, so, It is complitely joyfull to listen You because your videos are clear and Plenty focused. Greetings from México

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing....Doc

[@jimdiavastes]

Harley starters (2009-2014) were designed for he 96ci motor. There were no changes in starter output power for the 103 and bigger engines until the M8s came out. For the twin cams the "96ci" starter that has to work overtime to turn over a 103 or bigger - you will get kickback - even with the SE compensator. The All balls High out put starter is a direct replacement bolt in option with more output and a LIFETIME warranty on all parts of the starter for about the same price as a new HD starter. I have a number of friends with CVOs who have made this transition with me and all report the days of kickback and starter issues are GONE on their twin cams.

[@TERRYMCCLUSKEY]

I wish Doc would have commented on the S&S easy start cams in regard to cranking on this topic, but I do understand that HD and those who are here to endorse HD products don't have a mandate to support their competition. I respect those who think outside the box and appreciate your input jimdiavstaas. I have pondered what I will do when the time comes for some starter work and I'm impressed with what I read about all balls. I have an 06 TC with an S&S 4.325" crank now, my HD crank failed before I installed the S&S parts and increased the bore to 3.785" to create a 103 cube. I've never suffered kickback with the 585 S&S easy start cams, and I know this will extend the life of my starter. I Also wish Doc would have reminded everyone of the importance of never using a weak or inadequate battery to avoid many electrical issues especially when it comes to starters.

[@williamgiguere6400]

this guy should have his own show. very good explanation sir !

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for watching and support…Doc

[@Mike-bi7rj]

thank you my starter on my 78 fsx is acting up and you just told me what i need to check out. first im looking at the battery then what you just said. the teeth on the starter clutch are wore down so that is two things im looking at. thanks again

[@parkerent]

Another amazing job at helping us understand what makes our rides work. Thanks Doc!!!

[@gucci4871]

That was great explanation 👍 now I know about low amperage battery being hard on starter and other bits. TY

[@tluck6532]

Thanks for taking a couple minutes to say hi to a fan and thanks for the tip on the tuner. Everyone I met today at Low Country Harley was fantastic. Keep up the great work....Tom from Boston.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Was great to meet you too. Ride safe

[@coloradokid1346]

Thanks Doc for your great tips. The more tips I learn from you the better I understand my bikes to help maintain them. Big thumbs up to you.

[@scottmurphy1947]

ALWAYS ENJOY YOUR VIDEOS DOC.....THANKS FOR DOING THEM FOR US ...WISH I LIVED CLOSER TO YOUR DEALERSHIP BUT YOU INSPIRE CONFIDENCE IN WORKING WITH A CERTIFIED DEALER MECHANIC THOUGH....

[@psuedopaul]

Thanks Doc ,Im changing my 2003 Heritage soft tail fat boy starter this weekend,this was a big help ,im gonna rebuild instead of replace ,Have a great one!

[@kevenclark7168]

Thanks Doc, you always keep it interesting and pertinent and you don't skip the small details that make such a difference!

[@richardllanos7389]

Doc your awesome. Had a problem with my 2006 cvo starter it was the contacts. You helped me nail it. Can't thank you enough.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing your story. It is good to hear we are helping..Doc

[@houndsmanone4563]

Quite informative, Doc. I may need a new startrer for my 09 RK classic. I have no clue what the issue is with my starter. I hate to sound suspicious but I'm leary of the HD mechanics. Each time I take my bike to the HD shop for repairs, something else seems to be wrong. I have a little over 26k miles on my bike and I do take it in for regular maintenance. To me, it's a low mileage bike but the HD shop considers my bike old. I guess it is. Thanks for telling us about replacing starter cables of we decide to replace the entire starter with an after market unit. Have a fine week and thanks again for the great videos. 👍🏽🤠 5/1/23

[@earlkozak6538]

Great informative video. My 25 year old Road king classic still has the original starter. Only 25K miles, though. I just don't get to ride as much as I'd like. Work keeps me away from home most of the time

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Just like a good friend, the bike is waiting for you and the road…..Doc

[@earlkozak6538]

@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Thanks Doc!

[@jerrydouglas7643]

Always good to have his explanations. They make sense.

[@BrewCityRider]

Excellent information. So that begs the question, will a Harley-Davidson service department actually replace the needed parts within your starter motor? Or do they just replace the whole starter? My guess is it will depend on the particular shop.

[@kylemoore9626]

BrewCityRider it probably isn’t any cheaper to have a tech R&R the starter and rebuild it. You just end up paying more labor and less parts, as opposed to just buying a new unit and less labor.

[@aactionluxurykitchens3979]

Short but thank you. Can you answer this. I bought a used 2006 dyna fxd. The guy laid it down. He said he diced everything but later my bike had starting problems I then found the starter was hanging on by one loose bolt

[@RichardNasby]

My 05 RK has 18k miles on it. The starter click click click. There's no loose or dirty connections. The battery reads 12.5, but drops to 6 when hitting the starter. But does the same with a real good jump pack.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

You have no Cold Cranking Amperage. You know this by watching the volts drop to 6! You know the battery is bad. Buy a new battery and test. Every Harley needs a good battery to start and run. The Jumper only adds to a low capable battery. If the battery is old, worn out internally the jumper can’t take the place of a broken part…..Doc

[@talkingrock7011]

Thanks for the great information as what can go wrong and when to replace

[@chasesmithtn10]

Hey Doc! Love the informative video! My 2002 Sportster 1200 is giving a steady click. Click.Click.Click.... It will turn over sporadically. I hate to ask but figured I would try as many resources. Does this sound like a starter? I am new to motorcycle repair/maintenance but looking forward to learning and getting my hands dirty. Thank you in advance for any help!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Chase I encourage you to purchase a Factory Service Manual. It’s the Bible for home mechanics. Check all connections. Find your starter relay. Put your hand on it. If you feel the click click click there go to your auto store and pick one up….Doc

[@ut1004bp]

Well done, thanks for your time, and detail to a problem that we most all will have sooner or later..dang you pointed out one of the biggest complaints HD owners have.. Cost of replacement..! however I will add that many times those starter problems are actually a poor connection of the battery cables.. so start there first.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Good Point...Doc

[@offshore4848]

Great video, going through problems with a hitachi on my Shovelhead,

[@Todesjaeger00]

Found this video after I was "stranded" after a lunch outing. The starter would drive the engine to compression but couldn't kick it over. New battery just last spring and the place I bought it from tested it after I had got home and charged it to 12.8V. They put a tester on it and said it was fine... so now I need to check the cables from the battery down to the starter. I did add some LED lights (kuryakyn) last year that mount in the cooling pods, so I'm wondering if they are causing too much of a load, but I thought the lights shut off when cranking the bike. Would be good to have headlight switches.. Looks like i have some stuff to do this weekend 😄 Seems it would cost as much to rebuild the starter as it is to replace it (doing my own removal/reinstall)

[@TERRYMCCLUSKEY]

Have someone who knows their stuff with batteries do a load test on yours, not just some counter kid with a volt meter, that's not a real test you can count on!

[@fredjaeger690]

Thanks for the lesson. Needed to know.

[@skippynj1979]

Well that explained my grinding and kick back today!

[@dannywaits7229]

mine too.....winter project!

[@johnbeard1324]

Good info Doc.....thx,.... Looking to replace the 'starter clutch' with OEM on a 2003 XL1200C. Looking forward to getting back on the road.... \m/ \m/

[@ricklafon463]

Thanks Doc for the Vid. little story here, my bike (02 FXDGW) is hard to start due to upgrades before i bought it runs like a champ just hard starting, warming up for the 100 miles home i did not relies i had the start button pushed and could not hear the starter due to bad hearing, once noticed i released the button and continued on our way rode maybe 20 miles and stopped for smoke break and shut off bike when ready to leave starter motor would do nothing we got the bike jumped and made it home with no problems, the next day i tried starting bike and nothing i tried 2 weeks and ordered starter motor when it arrived i gathered tools, and once more tried starting, well this time it started like nothing was ever wrong, even today 7 months later still starting and running like it always did, still dont understand if it was just hot or maybe some slight build up on brushs but at least i have a spare starter now

[@CarlosGarcia-ls4hn]

Doc, you did not mention the jack shaft or ring gear. Are those replaceable too? Thx0

[@jamesmacneil1609]

Excellent video & equally narrated. Thank you.

[@scottwilloughby3840]

Great video thank you always look forward to your next video all the best

[@RonaldBridge]

Thanks mate for your wisdom

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for taking time to watch & post…..Doc

[@texas1040]

Good day, I am looking at buying a 2008 HD Road King Screaming Eagle CVO 110 with 49k miles. The bike is showroom clean. I have been reading a lot of feedback that the 110 eng had a ton of issues. I know it depends on how well-maintained the bike was. With 49k Miles should I pass on this bike?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Ask a lot of questions. Especially on motor work….Doc

[@FreshOffSkidRow]

You’re the best Doc!

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

Hey Doc, Me again and Im sure by now your saying OMG...that guy again..!! Well, long story short, lost my clutch on I95 and barely got the bike home. I ordered a new clutch, clutch basket bearing, clutch pack spring and automatic chain tensioner. The compensator bolt that has to be replaced Harley Davidson doesn't even make any more...Not happy about that but I found an after market one so, no big shakes. Im also putting in the new Cycle Electric, 50 amp, 3 phase stator and the matching Voltage Regulator/Rectifier. Only thing I left out is the primary chain. I have 63,000 on the chain so, Im $1200 deep into parts as it is and really I don't want to spend any more money but, Im in the primary so would YOU....replace the chain or should it be good to go for another 60,000 miles. Thanks Doc for all your help....We do appreciate you...

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Replace. I don't know what damaged happened in the Primary but if parts went everywhere, I am sure some links are compromized. and putting a new chain with a new adjuster is a better match...Doc

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson I agree....Thank you for the input. No parts broke...I just lost the clutch, its worn out but, Im there right...so replace it and move on....Thanks Doc, if I ever make to your home town...Find a great steak house and I'll feed you a cow....Rp

[@jmeyer58]

Nice job on explaining the internals of a starter

[@bm7760]

The starter clutch in my '03 FXST didn't last six months. Replaced it with a Denso part (same part) as found in many a Toyota. Much cheaper than through Harley. Oil tank had to come off so it was a bit of a pain to replace.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

How did you find the Toyota part would fit? That IS a lot of work to install a part that won’t work 🤷‍♂️…..Doc

[@peterhart5882]

keep 'em coming doc

[@mikedavidhizar]

Why are there NO clutch rebuild videos for the starters on the M8. They sell the clutch, but with no instructions or parts diagrams. Super frustrating since it's a completely different design. Please help!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Mike if you are that into working on your M8, Purchase a Harley-Davidson Factory Service Manual. Then you won’t need videos…..Doc

[@danielgaskell5490]

Great video! QUESTION: Is there a mechanical and or lubricity advantage to the primary cover design of the early ‘17 & ‘18 Touring/Softail model M8’s versus the 2019 and up thinner/skinnier primary covers? Seems like more fluid would preserve the oil additives and stay cleaner longer benefitting all mechanical parts in the primary! What do you think Doc???

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

There are no advantages or disadvantages that we are aware of.

[@jlc904ubc]

Thanks Doc. Great info. I love your videos! Have a good week!

[@robertgorham5422]

Thanks Doc. Just what I needed. ;)

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Glad to hear it Robert…..Doc

[@studio12archive60]

Excellent. thank you

[@jamesschmitz3954]

Thank you for you vídeos they are helpful

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Glad you like them and your time watching….Doc

[@harley62t]

Super informative! Thanks Doc and LCHD for putting these vids on!

[@superdivemaster]

Thanks for the great class !!!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for watching….Doc

[@cdpc211]

My bike grinds sometimes coming from the primary when I start it. Do you think it's the starter?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I would definitely open the primary and look at clutch basket gear, starter gear and compensator…..Doc

[@Lumpy330]

Hi Doc. I have a 2004 Sportster that needs a new starter clutch. My question is, can it be replaced from the primary side without having to remove the starter? TIA!

[@erniejohnson6271]

Will you hear a winding sound like metal touching even when the bike is running when a starter clutch is going out

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Yes it can if the solinoid is not returning the gear back to neutral position…Doc

[@Chuck-vv3wu]

Thanks Doc, great info, Doc is there a way to stop the kick back on evolution motors? Cheers mate✌️

[@aactionluxurykitchens3979]

I then adjusted and tightened the bolt. Now when i try to start it just clicks once when pressing the ignition. Is that a bad starter or something more

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Too many unknowns to advise….Doc

[@wvbiker746]

Is there a starter made like the new ones for Evos? Something made so you dont have to get into the primary case????

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

No unless you went to aftermarket belt drive….Doc

[@wvbiker746]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson thats too bad. Sure would save alot of time and work. thanks for the reply

[@jeanpaulcomeau8131]

I have a HD fat boy (2009) that makes a terrible "shlonk" noise at start when the engine is hot . A slight improvement on start is when I hit the start button before the end of the injection. Would it be because it reduces a bit the pressure inside the cylinders and ease the cranking? Battery is 12.7 volts and drops at 10.5 Volts during start . I have cleaned up battery terminals and positive lead wire terminal of the starter motor . No improvement.. Any suggestions Doc ? Thank you

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I believe you answered your own question. Battery drops voltage too much and harder to start if you wait ( which your lights and ignition is draining your battery) so either replace the battery and or have your starter checked with an amp meter. It could be asking for more CCA then your battery can supply…..Doc

[@jeanpaulcomeau8131]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Thank you . What would be the maximum voltage drop acceptable? Any recommendations for a battery of quality? Do a lithium iron phosphate with a good CCA (400 or above )would help ? Once again , thank you for your answer and your very informative videos .

[@jeanpaulcomeau8131]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson thank you for your answer

[@bradmarchi6298]

Thanks Doc...urrrrrr awesome..

[@briankoons2266]

Thank you for the video my bikes starter is making the noise just once in a while. The gear kinda pop grinding noise now I know what it is

[@chrispergram8142]

Same here. Maybe once a month it has started doing it. Every other time it's fine so I would assume a replacement will be in store sooner or later.

[@briankoons2266]

This is happening on my Dyna after being ridden for an hr at about 80°f . im thinking it's the battery level is low I'm running straight 50 weight oil. And most of the time doesn't do it at all. One of those weird mysteries with a Harley. I owned a 2010 Honda Sabre as well that did the same thing

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

Hey Doc, Can't figure this out....Brand New Starter first of all. I push the starter button, I can hear the relay click but the starter will not energize. I put a jumper wire directly from the battery + terminal to the spade lug on the starter, it energizes and turns. I put a volt meter on the green wire (disconnected from the starter terminal) and I push the button and I'm getting 12 volts. So why is it only working on the jumper wire connected directly to the + terminal and not working on the green control wire when the volt meter is measuring 12 volts...???? This makes absolutely no sense to me. I can't wait to hear what Im over looking...I have no frigging clue what is going on...

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Follow the path. When you go directly from battery to starter you have by passed, ignition switch, starter button, wiring and relay. Most of the time it is the relay. Remember there is enough Voltage but no amps backing it up when passing through many items to get there. …Doc

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson I read the service manual and there are two starter relays....One is in the side cover on the left hand side of the bike. The other is a much bigger relay under the seat. When I press the starter button on the handlebars I can hear the relay fire but, its not killing the lights as it should however it is supply 12 volts to the control (green wire) to the starter. Are you telling me that the green wire has 12 volts but not enough amperage to fire the starter..??? Any idea what the second relay is for on the left hand side of the bike in the fuse block.. The manual clearly states...."starter relay" do these two relays work in concert..??? This is the part that has me stumped. I still have the problem of the accessory fuse blowing on start up. If I turn the ignition switch on, everything works fine. However, as soon as I start the bike the accessory fuse blows. I have been chasing this problem now for months and Im riding a bike without turn signals or the horn....Not safe but I am not going to garage the bike and not ride it just because the horn and turn signals do not work. I would however, like the bike to function as designed by Harley.....

[@lloydmoss4264]

Trouble finding the parts; i.e, copper washer for plunger and the two contact points. My starter looks exactly like the one in the video. Thank for the video. Would like some information on where to find some of these parts.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

You did not mention model and year. Your Harley Dealer can order these parts from the factory. Terry Components and Drag Specialties offer stater solenoid repair kits. ~ Doc

[@AskMrCash]

Hey Doc Harley. I have a 1977 xlch and im having an issue with engagement inside the clutch case.(with the starter and the solenoid)I used shims in the past to get the proper alignments. are my clearances wrong? but now i cant seem to find the sweet spot. Do you have any jewels of knowledge to set me in the right direction?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Having a Sportster with a long history. My first choice is the condition of the starter gear on the clutch…..Doc

[@AskMrCash]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson could it be the starter bendix not locking in the opposite direction?

[@AskMrCash]

​@@LowCountryHarleyDavidsonclean gears

[@AskMrCash]

Thanks for the rapid response I made a video and will link it

[@AskMrCash]

kzbin.infovMrxeYQ2_Io?si=OZD589JwijZtNBkz

[@Otis884]

Always great stuff Doc, thanks.

[@HarleyFirestorm]

Have a really weird problem on my M8 sport glide, has been doing it for about 3 years, but when I press the start button, the engine turns once (doesn't fire up) and thats it, I also notice on my instrument panel that the clock resets, when I press the button again the bike fires up, not sure if its a relay/solonoid or a bad earth somewhere, but its irritating, only seems to do it once every few months, I have changed the battery on it and it still done it (had to change battery anyway) The bike doesn't have a lot of miles on it (I always have two motorcycles). so around 7K mils.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I have the same issue. One of these days I’m diving in to find the issue. But it’s riding season 🤷‍♂️….Doc

[@HarleyFirestorm]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Well if you find the problem first please share and I will do like wise, I don't think its going to be hard to find, however like you finding the time to chase it down is another thing :)

[@ry646]

Hey Doc, what would cause a new jackshaft’s teeth to sheer off. New starter and ring gear install at the time the jack shaft was replaced. Lasted maybe 20 starts. Thanks in advance.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Starter was checked at the time jackshaft was installed? I would be concerned the starter is not retracting the jackshaft enough so it is grinding on the back of the ring gear. A worn out compensator will ruin a starter and too advanced timing...Doc

[@Eugenesnufflebean]

Definately trust this man to work on my bike

[@oneofmany1087]

Hey Doc been working on a 1973 ss 350 Aermacchi starter. do you ever work on the Aermacchi bikes?

[@mjb80713]

Great video

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks….Doc

[@WickedPinfish]

I have an aftermarket hi torque starter on a 2004 softail (upgraded to a 96ci with S&S kit). Battery is a new Lithium Hi Power one. When I hit the starter, it sometimes turns maybe one revolution and then does nothing for a second or two. No sounds. Then it may start turning over like it should or does nothing at all. If I turn off the ignition and try again, it may crank as normal or may not. I have new cables installed. I'm stumped.

[@richpurslow3283]

Thanks for the video. Good explaination

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

You're welcome...Doc

[@Ponlets]

mine does buzz noise and rarely will rotate anything even if i try to start in neutral (i usually always start in neutral)

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I don’t know a lot about your bike. Battery CCA condition, all ground connections, relay connection and condition and finally internal and external mechanical binding….Doc

[@Ponlets]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson i dont know if i can afford to come by your area as i am in Seattle currently and do not currently have a method or means to transport the non starting bike to any location that could even service it because it wont start

[@charlesmccormick4443]

Did you neglect to mention that the starter teeth ring press fit on the clutch basket can also slip and fail to turn the engine ?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing, you are correct...Doc

[@cwbaldwin61]

Hi Doc - occasionally (maybe one-out-twenty starts) I'll hear a awful "kwang" kinda of noise; it's very intermittent. I'm only guessing, but it sounds like the pinion gear is not engaging cleanly with the clutch - merely bounces off of it. It doesn't start. I try again and it almost always does. But it's a terrible noise and sounds it'll break something sooner or later. Your thoughts on this. My scoot is a 2012 FXDC. Battery is new. Thanks.

[@openroad6522]

Compensator sprocket

[@jacklonac5745]

Nice vid doc..thanks a lot

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for watching….Doc

[@markblanc5993]

Youre a wizard sir

[@donnieraylockhart5027]

Hi doc, Had my 2009 crossbones starter rebuilt at a local starter & alternator shop for 85 bucks. Be replaced the gear and the contacts kit you descrubed, The old starter was cranking the bike but sometimes slipped and grind real hard. So i reinstalled the rebuilt one & cranks better but still grinding slightly still . What would still cause this . Bike has 19,000 on it.

[@adminadmin9997]

How many miles can we expect till it's time to replace the starter on a harley davison? Who hear has replaced there starter?

[@robertpronovost3839]

I asked before about my solenoid staying engaged. Relay fuse was didn’t change situation. It was suggested to replace solenoid switch, is this the next best choice?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

It could be cheaper to have your local tech follow the flow chart in a Factory Service Manual and replace the part that is causing the issue..Doc

[@Comm0ut]

Denso OSGR Light Duty units are used on millions of cars and trucks. Their coaxial solenoid and gear reduction are key advantages. I immediately replace the stock blank end cover with an aftermarket pushbutton cover which bypasses not only all external relays and wiring but even the solenoid windings. There are several Denso overhaul videos and you can get contact kits at any auto electric rebuilder but I just buy online. Generic car contacts are fine as the bike stuff is the same, but the contacts must be the right style (some kits have both styles but KZbin's bot autobans me when I post links) . An aftermarket kit with all the parts is about 25 dollars and the Denso or licensed copies (the design is long proven over several decades) are of the same quality. HD does not make their own starters (a good thing). Get the kits with the seals etc as they're cheap enough. I use dielectric grease on all power cable studs and the solenoid connector (as well as the alternator pigtail to exclude moisture. Your local auto electric shop can make short work of fixing a starter. While starter clutch and end housings differ there are so many Densos made one can mix parts like grabbing the electric motor off any suitable donor.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I sense a little humor in your awesome Tech Tip. Thank you for sharing…Doc

[@thomasleonardjr.7101]

Is the regular gas bad for a new Ultra limited 2019 I hear to many things.

[@joemills9918]

My opinion, even at 3$ a gallon it cost 14 to 15 bucks to fill up near net zero gas in tank. Your bike has high compression why would you run a gas lower octane that is less efficient and dirty it up?

[@fadlisali498]

Hi doc, I just experience while my engine is running after clicking on the start switch...after a while I hear a cranking sound repeatedly secs apart simultaneously. As if someone press the start switch button while the engine is running..I am lost and can't figure out and explanation. Does 883 iron 2010 have this problem?

[@davemac2505]

A new starter from Harley Davidson for a twin cam is over 450$ by itself!

[@dannymichelotti5849]

When my soft tail warms up .It seems to sound like it’s engaging but kicking back sounds bad you like its the starter it a 2011 with 34000 miles

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Just possible your compensator is worn out....Doc

[@61espo]

Thanks again Doc!

[@andycorrell702]

Doc Harley, I have an older motorcycle that kicks back as you described. What can cause this?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Many details that go into diagnosing the cause- like any modifications that have been done, battery age, loose connections or ignition issues. I’d suggest taking it in before having to purchase a complete starter.

[@thomasstevenson5367]

About every 10th time I start my bike the starter makes a grinding sound, what can cause that?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

First thought includes a worn Motor Compensator, old battery with weak cold crank amp., worn teeth on clutch basket, starter clutch wearing and then there is the age of wires &connectors….Doc

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

Oh, if I do go ahead and replace the primary chain, any suggestions for a bullet proof chain...???

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

NO, Stock lasted this long, I stay with OEM...Doc

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson I followed your advice....Used a stock Harley chain....worked great

[@markobrien690]

What about a 2008 FLSTC that does nothing when I hit the starter button? No clicks, nada. The bike sat for three months, ran fine when parked. New battery.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Start with basic: current voltage in battery. Battery terminal connections. Voltage drop at battery when start button is pushed. Then make sure the very small terminal at starter is pushed in all the way….Doc

[@tcellis6673]

Good information! Thanks.

[@davidmitchell9048]

Great information, thanks!!

[@dalesekel5769]

I realize this video is a year and a half old but I have a question relating to starter motor life-cycle. I had a mechanic tell me many years ago to always start your bike in neutral and I can hear the difference turning it over when I do. It is not working as hard. I have always done this and have never had a starter problem over a lot of years and miles. Mr. Doc Harley - do you agree with this?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I agree with you. Since fuel injection, starting in neutral is a safety priority. I knew a customer who left his early fuel injected Harley in gear. He turned ignition on then pushed the starter button. The bike chugged across the parking lot with him chasing behind. Thanks ~ Doc

[@chrisphilhower6029]

Have a 2018 XL1200C. Press the Start button. Starter starts. Then stops momentarily. Then cranks again.

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

Hey Doc, I know this was about starters but, I have a question about its cousin the stator...LOL My 03 Peace Officer Shine Road King is almost 20 years old. That being stated, Im the type of person (Mechanical Engineer) That replaces parts before Im stuck on the side of the road so, ok here is the question. I'm not getting a definitive answer from anyone when I ask the question. Does my 03 Road King Shine have a 3 phase stator. Some people say yes and others say no. If no, can I replace the stator with a 3 phase model, replace the voltage regulator without creating any electrical problems with the rest of the electronics on the bike. I do not want to sway all this out only to find out I possibly might hurt some other components. Im not having any problems with my bike now and I don't want to at 2;00am in the morning on i-95

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

You own the Peace officer edition with basic two phase. The Police models had the better charging system. You can upgrade your bike with the HD Accessories 45 amp charging system Part # 29999-97B. Also I highly suggest looking up Cycle Electric Inc.They offer a lot information and upgrades....Doc

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Thank you....You get a star on your forehead and an extra cookie at lunch today..

[@jimweagant8920]

Good information thanks for sharing that

[@SmokinDogg68]

What if you get a continuous clacking sound when you try starting it? from the primaryarea.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Depending on what year and model. Many times the Battery does not have enough juice to kick out the starter gear and engage the starter ring on the clutch....Doc