ElectricalEngineer
New Member
I just got a used 98 Sportster, 717 engine... It worked the first couple times out although it sounded quite a bit clanky at low speeds.
Last time I took it out, suddenly it would only go about half speed and then cut off. The engine was turning over, but I couldn't restart...
I tried to change some basic things first - spark plugs, made sure the oil level was good, etc. It started up and ran for about 3 seconds and then something seized up on me because I was unable to get the engine to turn over on the next attempt to start.
I have taken off the starter motor, cleaned off debris and added electrical lube to contacts. The solenoid is working and delivers power. The starter motor seems to run fine when not attached to the large engine gear, although I didn't actually measure torque. It jumped with some serious kick though.
Next, I took apart the engine top and cyclinder tops to see if there was any piston or cylinder damage - all looks ok as far as I can tell.
Finally, I lifted up the drive shaft flywheel cover behind the engine to turn the flywheel of the drive system. I was able to manually turn the drive system including jet on one end and crankshaft with pistons on the other end.
But, my starter motor still gets caught on something because it is still unable to make things turn over. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.
Last time I took it out, suddenly it would only go about half speed and then cut off. The engine was turning over, but I couldn't restart...
I tried to change some basic things first - spark plugs, made sure the oil level was good, etc. It started up and ran for about 3 seconds and then something seized up on me because I was unable to get the engine to turn over on the next attempt to start.
I have taken off the starter motor, cleaned off debris and added electrical lube to contacts. The solenoid is working and delivers power. The starter motor seems to run fine when not attached to the large engine gear, although I didn't actually measure torque. It jumped with some serious kick though.
Next, I took apart the engine top and cyclinder tops to see if there was any piston or cylinder damage - all looks ok as far as I can tell.
Finally, I lifted up the drive shaft flywheel cover behind the engine to turn the flywheel of the drive system. I was able to manually turn the drive system including jet on one end and crankshaft with pistons on the other end.
But, my starter motor still gets caught on something because it is still unable to make things turn over. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.