SOHC.co.uk Forums > CB350/400
Starter not disengaging
billdn:
Having balanced the carbs again! Yes, still fighting with running! Thought I'd got it about right . So disconnected carb balance kit, and buttoned everything up again I thought I'd fire it up again. Started ok but with a dreadful screeching from the starter motor. Killed ignition but kept screeching, so but of quick thinking and disconnected battery and screeching stopped. Turned ignition back on but not starting it and no repeat of noise. Before I remove starter motor I thought I'd consult you guys. Anyone had this happen. Electric starter had been intermittent but I presume was dirty switch, kick start works fine. Loathe to start it again in case I do more damage. Over to you !
exvalvesetdabbler:
Sounds like either the starter button or the starter solenoid isn't releasing. If you have a bulb and some crock clips, you could disconnect the thick wire on the solenoid that runs to the starter motor, connect the bulb between the now free connector on the solenoid and chassis, and press away on the button. Worse that could happen is the bulb stays on.
Does the starter button have a good spring back once released or is it gummed up by all the grease/oil from the throttle cable that has accumulated together with loads of crud.
The clutch on the starter shaft could be sticking and the motor is being spun by the engine but things would have to be pretty gummed up for that to happen. From what you described sounds like the starter is free running once the engine speed picks up (faster than the starter)and the clutch disengages.
Regards
Dave
TrickyMicky:
If the starter motor kept operating with the ignition off then it is not a problem with the starter motor. Definitely solenoid or handlebar button.
billdn:
--- Quote from: exvalvesetdabbler on March 15, 2026, 05:42:43 PM ---Sounds like either the starter button or the starter solenoid isn't releasing. If you have a bulb and some crock clips, you could disconnect the thick wire on the solenoid that runs to the starter motor, connect the bulb between the now free connector on the solenoid and chassis, and press away on the button. Worse that could happen is the bulb stays on.
Does the starter button have a good spring back once released or is it gummed up by all the grease/oil from the throttle cable that has accumulated together with loads of crud.
The clutch on the starter shaft could be sticking and the motor is being spun by the engine but things would have to be pretty gummed up for that to happen. From what you described sounds like the starter is free running once the engine speed picks up (faster than the starter)and the clutch disengages.
Regards
Dave
--- End quote ---
Sorry Dave, having dumb moment. Are you saying test light should come on or should NOT come on.
Cheers
Bill
TrickyMicky:
A quick test, which occasionally works, if the starter motor is spinning with the ignition turned off, give the solenoid a sharp tap with a screwdriver handle. If this cures it, then your solenoid is sticking and needs replacing.
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