Starter clutch issues even after replacing bearings

[seth1kaufman]

Hi everyone,

I did an engine overhaul a few months back. I have been working on this GL1100 for awhile. I pulled the engine, broke the pistons free, installed new rings, honed the cylinder walls, new head gaskets, etc. I also installed new sprag starter clutch rollers, bearings, and springs. A new starter was also recently installed. Nevertheless, when trying to start the bike, it makes the dreaded spinning noise where the chain is spinning but the rollers aren't engaging. I have Rotella 15w-40 T4 in the engine now. It sometimes starts if the temp is above 50 degrees Farenheit and if I push the start button repeatedly while tipping the bike back and forth to slosh the oil in the engine. Immediately after riding the bike around the block a few times and shutting it off, it starts right up. But, if I go back the next day to try to start it, the chain in the case just spins from the starter motor. I've already pulled the engine two or three times, and I don't want to do it again lol. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks

[WingAdmin]

This one's an easy fix, and I've answered it so many times that I made a video about it:



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[seth1kaufman]

Hi Wingadmin,
Thanks for the video. The only thing I don't understand is why there would be gunk up in the starter clutch if I had recently replaced the bearings and springs? I managed to get it started today after many attempts and took it for my first long ride since I got the bike and did the rebuild. Hopefully the oil getting up to the sprag clutch will be enough to do the trick. If not, I will be sure to try the seafoam trick before pulling the engine!

[WingAdmin]

You're right - if they were just replaced, then there shouldn't be sludge built up there yet. The behavior you're describing is consistent with the sprags not engaging properly - were they all moving freely with the correct springs installed?

[seth1kaufman]

Hi Wingadmin,

After managing to get it started and taking my first long ride since rebuilding the engine, I have not had a problem with the starter clutch. Hopefully the oil heat and circulation during the ride did the trick. Only time will tell. Thanks again