How-To: V Star Starter Clutch Replacement (Sample)

[@nzafiris]

I know there are people who scoff at paying for instructional videos, but when you search for starter clutch tutorials how many people mess them up the first time and have to go back and fix it? Now you're taking your whole engine apart to get to this fix and is your time and frustration worth twenty bucks? Not to mention your flywheel, timing chain, valves and whatever else can break apart if you do this job incorrectly. I took the chance to pay and it was the best decision I could have made. I had some frustrations along the way and Matt answered every single one of my emails with genuine concern and was more than willing to help me make sure the bike was back to perfect. What came with the $20 was not only a great, thorough and well shot video, but also the knowing that there are still people out there who care. In a world where customer service has dwindled down to automated phone systems and dismissive operators when you get one, Matt is one of those guys who cares about the job he does and wants nothing more than for you to succeed at your projects. I can guarantee it. Thanks for all your help, Matt!!

[@HTMR]

Thanks for the positive feedback Nick!

[@la1212yRC51]

@@HTMR @MatthewMCRepair will I still be able to purchase the video?

[@HTMR]

@@la1212yRC51 Yes why not.

[@la1212yRC51]

@@HTMR So the parts you listed are so expensive. Are these OEM? Do you recommend aftermarket parts?

[@HTMR]

@@la1212yRC51 Email me, I can send you some aftermarket parts that worked well for me.

[@b0nz]

Just bought this bike and starter clutch dies. I paid for the video and was able to pull off this replacement first try. She started first try. Tutorial was detailed, watch it fully first! Would have been lost without it. Thanks Matt! -2005 Yamaha V Star 1100 Classic.

[@HTMR]

Awesome! Nice job! Thanks for the feedback on video!

[@kakuto381]

Jim i joust bough 2005 yamaha vstart 1100 classic like 3 weeks ago and im having the same issue can you tell me where did you bough your klutch starter please and thank you

[@al__paradice9254]

Bought an 06 1100 and the very next day mine went out been months trying to figure it out

[@tinahurlbert9359]

Pretty crappy to not tell us in advance that the full video needs to be purchased. I’m happy you’re making money doing this - it’s helpful! But notify people ahead of time. I won’t use your site again.

[@farrokhshadbahr9494]

Hey Matthew, I just wanted to thank u for this video. By far the best I've seen on the net. Greate quality, instructions, tips, and easy to comprehend. Well worth the donation. Keep up the good work.

[@HTMR]

Farrokh, thanks for the compliments! I hope it saved you money and your motorcycle back on the road.

[@orlynleandro]

MatthewMCRepair hey matthew this guy said he only spend $150 dollars to repair his clutch how is that possible when the new kit is almost $500 ? would you guide me on that

[@HTMR]

Search ebay for starter clutch kits. Non OEM is way cheaper.

[@carandme1]

Matthew, my 2008 Yamaha is still backfiring through the top exhaust. I've changed the starter clutch, fuel pump, 1 coil, stator and resistor. I'll soon have a new bike. Any thoughts on something I've missed. Next on the list are the carbs. Thanks...

[@HTMR]

Refresh my memory and give me more details on the backfire situation, like when it occurs.

[@carandme1]

@@HTMR The bike backfires through the top exhaust. Struggles to stay idling. I replaced one of the coils, the starter clutch, the fuel pump and the regulator. Are the coils the 2 different for this bike?

[@carandme1]

@@HTMR The backfiring usually happens when you twist the throttle, doesn't have to be a lot of throttle.

[@carandme1]

@@HTMR The bike backfires when you crank the throttle at idle, through the top exhaust pipe. Haven't ridden the bike, don't trust it.

[@carandme1]

I change out the starter clutch, it went well.... but now the bike won't start. I've even had flames coming out of the exhaust. I'm thinking it's timing even though we checked it twice. The T marking on the bottom gear is lined up with the mark on the upper gear. What am I missing or have done wrong. Thanks.

[@HTMR]

Sounds like cam timing is off.

[@carandme1]

@@HTMR I've lined the marks on the upper and lower gears, no change. Could the chain have jumped a link or two so that even though it's lined up they are still out of alignment?

[@carandme1]

I have a 2008 yamaha vstar 1100 classic that backfires through the top pipe. Any thoughts on what's causing this? I've changed the stator, a coil, battery, fuel pump and starter clutch.

[@HTMR]

Stock airbox and pipes? Backfires at idle or decel?

[@carandme1]

@@HTMR It has a stock airbox with Vance & Hines exhaust. It backfires during decel.

[@HTMR]

@@carandme1 Fuel screw/pilot jet is too lean. Read/view content on this page: howtomotorcyclerepair.com/how-to-size-your-pilot-jet-pilot-screw-explained/

[@carandme1]

When buying a Starter Clutch kits, is there an issue with aftermarket kits as compared to Yamaha OEM kits?

[@HTMR]

I used a kit from eBay. Owner sold bike so not sure how they hold up.

[@carandme1]

@@HTMR So you use Yamaha OEM parts kit? You've mentioned that you deal mainly with one parts distributor. I couldn't find the link. (sometimes you can't see for looking) What was that link? Thanks.

[@HTMR]

@@carandme1 www.ebay.com/itm/122958571715?hash=item1ca0e6e8c3:g:WooAAOSwb7diA3wA

[@danosgood3751]

Mat I have a 05 Yamaha v star 650 classic and it does the same noise

[@carandme1]

Having problems with my 08 yamaha v star 1100 classic - approx. 18000 miles. When trying to start the bike it turns over but doesn't start. There's a loud clunking noise as the engine turns over. I thought it was the stator because there was no charge when checked with a meter, so I bought a used one on Ebay. The plug was different so I replaced it with the plug from the original stator. Is there a different plug on a 650 v star then a 1100 v star? Any idea if the starter clutch could be the cause of this clunking/problem?

[@HTMR]

Email me a video of the problem.

[@carandme1]

@@HTMR What's your email address?

[@HTMR]

@@carandme1 howtomotorcyclerepair.com/contact/

[@kakuto381]

hey guys i am currently living in Guatemala Central America i joust bough 2005 yamaha vstart 1100 classic like 3 weeks ago and im having the same issue can any one tell me tell me where can i purchase klutch starter please and thank you

[@ozarkoutdoorsman4481]

I have a 2003 Yamaha 1600 midnight star. Is your video repair tutorial the same on the 1100 as my 1600?

[@HTMR]

It's a bit different. If you decide to buy, and do not find it applicable, ask for a refund.

[@DanielDemers]

I have to purchase the full video?

[@HTMR]

Yes - howtomotorcyclerepair.com/vstarstarterclutch/

[@DanielDemers]

@@HTMR no

[@HTMR]

@@DanielDemers ok good luck

[@fearamhain2475]

Buy the god damn video. He saved me over 600 bucks in parts. Good fucking dude.

[@kingston440]

Hi Matt, I am trying to diagnose a starting problem on my 2008 WR250R. It takes multiple cranks to start the bike cold, before it actually starts. I've checked or replaced the battery, spark plug, ignition coil, fuel injector, throttle body, air filter, starter relay and starter motor and they all work. Does this sound like it could be starter clutch problem and should I try to take it apart to figure out? Thanks.

[@HTMR]

If the motor cranks over, it's not the starter clutch. I'm sorry, but I don't have a lot of experience with FI. Maybe a sensor is faulty and not telling the ECM to deliver the right amount of fuel for starting????

[@kingston440]

@@HTMR Thanks, I will look into the sensors.

[@ikillterror]

I don't understand why you have to re time the engine. if you don't touch or disengage the timing chains wont they still be in the exact same place as they were before? I'm still very confused. I have all the parts in but I'm afraid to turn her over for fear of a bent valve

[@HTMR]

In a perfect world, yes you wouldn't have to retime, but things can shift on you. Furthermore, the timing procedure is wrong/confusing in the service manual. The full length video covers it in detail.

[@stevencolebank5462]

Thanks man for the help 🙏

[@trippythoughts8657]

Video disclaimer: it doesn't show you how to replace starter clutch; just the beginning of the video to demo the paid version.

[@carolynndimmer7044]

Hi Matt , thanks for doing the videos , your awesome , just subscribed to your channel , I've got a 2000 1600 road star , starters been giving me grief , this helped in the direction I needed to take to fix it...thank you , nice shop by the way 👍

[@HTMR]

Thanks!

[@nzafiris]

Hi Matthew, First off, I support this. I get it, this is how you feed your family, don't sweat the haters. I just have a question. I'm pretty sure after this winter I messed up my starter clutch pretty badly trying to get a stubborn bike going and turning the throttle despite knowing I shouldn't. I had hoped to make it through the riding season before I went in and replaced it, but now I'm getting that whirring sound and the starter isn't grabbing. So when I stop the bike half the time i get a THWACK!, and sometimes when I start it sounds like i'm trying to start the bike with a bag of rocks. Lastly when I am riding and I accelerate past what I guess is about 4k rpms I hear rattling, as if something is loose. Are all three of these problems connected to the starter clutch?

[@HTMR]

Nicholas, thanks for the supporting words. Yes, I would say all is related to starter clutch. The rollers that are supposed to "grab" and also "let go" are shot.

[@HTMR]

Thanks for the video purchase!

[@nzafiris]

Ok, thanks! Purchased. I'm on ebay looking at parts and I'm leery of some of these kits. They run from $80 to $500 for OEM. Is there a go-to aftermarket brand you look for or are there any in particular you avoid because the manufacturing is shotty?

[@HTMR]

I will email you the ebay parts I used. The owner of this bike soon sold it and could not give you feedback on how long the parts lasted.

[@christiancairy8012]

hello, i just bought a 2001 vstar 1100. The issue seems to be that the battery will not charge. we bought a brand new battery and rode for 40 miles, then at a stop light it all went out. I called a friend and charged it for 30 minutes, then started back up and rode another 20 miles before the battery died. Could this be caused by the stator? i am lost and rightfully pissed because i just bought it and there are only a couple weeks left to ride.

[@HTMR]

You need to trouble shoot the charging system. Here is a good chart: motorbikemondays.com/resources/charging-system-chart/ Download here: motorbikemondays.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/rte_troubleshooting_flow_chart.pdf

[@theonlytruedragin]

You are doing a video on the 1100... is the 650 done the exact same way? Also, if my starter a) doesn't engage at all, or b) when it does engage, it barely turns a bit, then clicks with a full battery, is this indicative of a bad starter clutch or some other issue?

[@HTMR]

If the starter clutch is bad, you will here the starter "spin" and the engine will not turn over. If you are getting clicking, then you probably have a poor connection somewhere.

[@theonlytruedragin]

How long should the repair take (assuming that it’s the starter clutch), and how long is the full repair video if I paid for it?

[@HTMR]

What year 650 so I can see if the video applies to your model.

[@theonlytruedragin]

MatthewMCRepair 2005

[@HTMR]

I don't think the 650's have starter clutch issues like the 1100's do. Can you send me a video of the problem? www.howtomotorcyclerepair.com/contact/

[@dawson2504]

Question, If i am not familiar with working on bikes; would I be able to do this repair myself by only watching the video? I've had good luck with working on my car with the help of service manuals. In other words, how difficult is this repair? The dealership is quoting $700 to replace the starter clutch with the kit and another $300 to flush the carb. Ouch!!!

[@HTMR]

Yes, absolutely. Only special tool is a puller which you can rent from autozone. I'd had several people with experience such as yours tackle this job.

[@jayreafs]

Thanks for not showing anything that has to do with the starter.......good luck selling your videos!

[@HTMR]

+Jay Reafs Thanks! Good luck fixing your starter clutch!

[@jessdavis1006]

o

[@ronniepaulinc]

yeah fuck this guy

[@BASEmonkey]

Hey Matt, thanks for the video. I found it to be very helpful to know what I was getting myself into before I started this project. I do have a question if you have a moment to answer it. The dealer listened to my bike try to start and they said that the starter clutch had failed. I originally thought it was the fuel pump, because you could not hear the pump pressurizing the fuel line. They agreed that the fuel pump was also probably bad and agreed that it was a little odd that both systems failed at basically the same time. The bike would start with some effort (I could hit the starter several times in an on/off pattern and based off what I know know, it seems that the starter clutch would eventually engage). The concern that I am having is that I have the flywheel pulled, but the starter clutch seems to be operating normally. It will not turn counter clockwise and turns freely clockwise. Do you think the dealer was wrong in their diagnostics (I agreed with it based on sound and the research I did)? Or do you think that the starter clutch was just starting to slip in my case and that I can't load it enough with my bare hands? I don't want to order the kit if the starter clutch isn't really the problem.

[@HTMR]

Eric Burkemper Eric, I replied to your email. Due to the high failure rate of starter clutches, just go ahead and replace it. Do any of the rollers looked damaged?

[@BASEmonkey]

MatthewMCRepair Thank you for your help Matt and for you quick response to my questions. You took a lot of the worry out of this job and ultimately helped me save over a grand (quoted $1200 at the shop, spent less than $150 total on this job).

[@gustavoteza5675]

Hey Guys, I have decided to buy his video. I think that since I was already risking to perform the repair by myself, I should increase my chances of doing it right using the help of a professional. Matthew's video is absolutely great and worthy the donation. Keep in mind, you are easily already saving 300 dollars by deciding to do it yourself, so spend the goddamn money to have proper instructions and buy the video! This guy went far beyond, offering me support through e-mail during the whole process! If I had any questions, he would answer incredibly fast. I think I even tested his patience at some point because english is not my first language and sometimes Im not that clear when i want to explain things. He guided me until the end and now my bike is perfect! If I face another issue with the bike that i decide to tackle myself, I will check if Matthew has a video for the problem! 100% Recommended!

[@HTMR]

Gustavo, thanks for the positive feedback! Glad you were able to fix it yourself and save some money. You did not test my patience...LOL. Email support on technical issues sometimes is not the easiest.

[@alexortega1397]

I have a 2003 roadstar Silver special edition will not start makes no Noise when trying to start. Can push start it but will not stay running any ideas please help thanks

[@HTMR]

So you hit the button and starter does not spin? No click either?

[@alexortega1397]

MatthewMCRepair yes that Correct I was thinking it’s the starter switch.

[@HTMR]

Break out the voltmeter and start checking things. I'd start at the solenoid and see if you get 12v when you hit the starter button.

[@alexortega1397]

MatthewMCRepair Will have to go to store and get a voltage meter but now I’m getting a clicking sound so I’m assuming I’m getting 12 V to the starter solenoid . But engine not turning over. Thanks for your help

[@HTMR]

OK, measure for voltage at starter and see what you get.

[@samizdat113]

Wow. That drain plug was tight.

[@MindFury]

So i didn't set the rear cam to tdc, just popped off the generator. i dont recall the cam chain moving. I will verify tdc before i put the genny back on, I was hoping to just put the flywheel back on....

[@HTMR]

Well, it's easy to have things shift on you. just make sure timing is correct when you reassemble.

[@williamkersey6477]

So I lear nothing where is the detail at

[@toddtedrick5894]

hey Matt im about to replace the starter clutch myself and liked what I seen in the video and plan on purchasing your video for when the part comes in. but is it a 1 time watch video or can I view it as many times as I want, becuase im sure im going to have to watch the timing section you discuss a few times

[@HTMR]

Hi Todd, you can view the video as many times as you want and is yours forever. Email support is included as well. Let me know if you have any more questions. Matt.

[@toddtedrick5894]

+MatthewMCRepair ok Matt thank you very much. im sure that it will but I will let you know the few that I watched weren't very helpful seem like the "mechanic" had a.d.d the way he would start going on about something else, your sample video was alot more detailed and right to the point and thank you for the very fast response to!

[@HTMR]

No problem. Let me know if you have any more questions.

[@SajLama98]

Hey Matt, I have the similar problems and symptoms for my 2000 V-star 650. I just have a couple of questions... 1. Is there way to confirm that the problem is actually the starter clutch replacement before I purchase the video? 2. Do you have any creative idea to stabilize my motorcycle while I work on it? I see that I'll have to take out the kickstand... I do not own a fancy bike stand. Thanks!

[@HTMR]

1. When you hit the starter button, all you will here is the starter spinning, and not engaging the engine. 2. Buy or borrow a motorcycle jack.

[@SajLama98]

Thanks! Sent you a message on your facebook page.

[@canddweldersllc4354]

3:10 I bet that stung.

[@Stackle2]

Got a question- The small gear to the extreme left when you remove the stator side engine cover- should it mesh with the gears of the starter idler clutch gear? replacing my cover Gasket, noticed my gears are about half inch apart, can't get a straight answer about whether this should be the way it is, or if some little part went awol.

[@HTMR]

The starter gear?

[@dvanhoose01]

What is a stator?

[@kooncesphotography]

How much it cost to fix. I'm thinking of buy one with this problem want to know what I'm looking at

[@HTMR]

There is a kit on ebay that costs $108. If you go OEM, it will cost WAY more.

[@fearamhain2475]

Matt! I'm considering buying your vid, sounds like you're the only one on the internet who knows half a damn about this. Exact same thing is happening with my bike. Just to confirm, all the parts together are going to cost me north of 1300 bucks, am I understanding this right?

[@HTMR]

Email me here: www.howtomotorcyclerepair.com/contact/ I have a kit that I used from ebay that costs less.

[@fearamhain2475]

Did, cheers!

[@brianhalstead5706]

Do I need to drain the oil if I'm only replacing the starter on a 2007 vstar 1100

[@HTMR]

No, the oil level is below the starter.

[@carsonownley6645]

would this apply to a 2006 vstar 1100 xvs?

[@HTMR]

Yes

[@jeffreywild8980]

My gift card will not process for purchase of full length video of 1100 v star starter chuch replacement,what am I doing wrong.

[@HTMR]

+Jeffrey Wild Please contact me here: www.howtomotorcyclerepair.com/contact/

[@unknownnumber1264]

Is it possible to pop start these bikes when the starter clutch is toast?? As a temporary solution of course ..

[@HTMR]

Very difficult. We tried that and ended up towing it to my place.

[@theeviltwin2417]

Yes, you can push start the bike.

[@bluewater7211]

Already having a bad day and looking a having to buy parts. Just wanted to see what I might need. Nope you want money to see. Thanks.. you might think that it's fair but either way it's a dic move.

[@HTMR]

You should go to the dealer and pay 800 to get it fixed. Not my fault you are having a bad day.

[@gerrittroon8762]

I get having to pay for instructional video, or getting money for leading people to parts houses, but not both.

[@HTMR]

Well I no longer get commission from those part houses, so there ya go.

[@gerrittroon8762]

@@HTMR well thats reasonable.

[@tommydobson5419]

hey where can I get the service manual at

[@HTMR]

www.howtomotorcyclerepair.com/vstarstarterclutch/ service manual link in blog post.

[@fearamhain2475]

74 people can't afford 20 bucks so probably shouldn't be riding big boy bikes anyway haha.

[@HTMR]

Very true. This video shows you how to save money. It's peanuts compared to what a dealer will charge.

[@thecosmicguru4986]

That's 11 minutes wasted I'll never get back. You never push a tool unless you nave no option.

[@HTMR]

How's your starter clutch?

[@Drewsta4]

jipped.

[@modernbike3878]

Waste of time, this video show you nothing, guy wants money for the video and he states in beginning he is "pretty sure"

[@HTMR]

I'm pretty sure you can go to the dealer and fork over $800+.

[@memyself3693]

Ten minutes lost forever

[@brayjohnny]

Not sure what's up with this channel. But, warming would be great. Don't mind paying but hate having my time wasted

[@ThatGuyEddie8762]

Makes you pay to wach wtf

[@HTMR]

Take it to the dealer, get a quote, then post that reaction.

[@noelsoliz9071]

Wtf?

[@tbublz]

Wheres the starter wheres the clutch WTF

[@davidjensen6587]

Lame kind of bs is this

[@HTMR]

Take is to the dealer and pay $800.

[@ninjasssssss]

Thanks for nothing. Maybe i'll go spend stupid money to get it fixed instead of trying to do this myself

[@HTMR]

+Dan Hickman Yeah, maybe you are better off going to the dealer and paying $800 versus a $20 video and doing it yourself.