Please advise

[guest1220]

I am recommissioning my 86 XBR having not used it for 18 years. As the 2nd owner the machine has NEVER started on the button. My local Honda dealer will not look at this machine.

Mileage is 12k. I have removed the cover and noted the starter operates faultlessly, all gears are like new. Last evening I removed the large cover and inspected the large gear wheel which is able to turn in the same direction (anticlock) as the engine, this surprised me. I do not want to attempt to remove the magnetic flywheel without good cause.

I will appreciate advice.

Regds,

Mel Vinton.
Cambridge.

[guest7]

Sorry, can you just clarify the problem? Does the engine turn over when you press the button but doesn't start? Or does the engine maintain the eerie silence of the dead when the button is pressed?

GC

[guest1220]

GC,
Thanks, With the small starter cover removed and lightly holding the gears in place, pressing the starter instantly spins the gears including the small gear which drives the large ring gear. There are a few clicks and no more. My thoughts were a problem with the starter clutch, although I come from another motorcycling era and have no knowledge of such things. I'm also terrified of taking the large magnet off, even if I could. I note in the workshop manual a special clamp is required. I cannot believe that such a beautifully engineered Honda engine at 12k miles would have starter clutch problems.

Am I correct that the large starter gear ring should NOT turn in same direction as the engine (anticlock)?

Mel

[guest7]

Sorry, my knowledge of engine internals is very limited, I know what the power fairies like to drink, but that's about it.

Early XBRs had a reputation for starter clutch problems, but none of mine have ever had starting issues.

I'm sure a boffin will be along soon to help with more useful advice  Unfortunately our tame bike mechanic (002) is away at the Elefant rally so he can't help.

GC

[SteveC#222]

I'm no expert either but the manual suggests either the Starter drive pinion or Starter idle gear may be the problem.

You can download the Workshop manual free from here -
http://www.4shared.com/file/92491583/a00cd62c/Honda_XBR_500_shop_manual.html?cau2=403tNullV
( you have to wait 45 seconds for the download link)

and the parts microfiche here - http://www.cmsnl.com/honda-xbr500-1987-england_model6433/partslist/

David Silver is good for spares -http://www.davidsilverspares.co.uk/

It isn't an uncommon problem with XBR's especially early ones.

[JOOLZ]

Hi 2 things to check. 1 make sure its not the solonoid playing up. 2 check the starter motor brushes and the motor pickups, you may have a dead or dirty one. It dosent sound mechanical to me if it occasionaly works.

[guest1220]

Jools,
Thanks, I assembled the starter gears removed the large cover and holding the gears in (dangerous) touched the starter. All gears worked fine. I have, I feel identified the concern as the 'starter clutch' behind the generator. According to the manual this should turn only one way and mine turns both ways. Iv'e ordered a puller and gaskets and will have a go this week-end.

Thanks

Mel