Bench testing a starter

[clt750]

Can you bench test a starter?

I came in from a ride the other night and I swear it sounded like the starter was spinning while the bike was running. After shutting it off I tried to restart the bike and it sounded like the starter was just spinning and not engaging. I have been having the notorious starter clutch clank. Not sure if something finally went bye bye in there. Anyways I yanked out the starter and wanted to see if it was possible to test it just because. Not sure if thats even the problem as it was spinning. I have yet to take the stator side cover off. Thats next.


GS1000S

[Adler]

Hook it up to a battery?

[blowerbike]

sounds like starter clutch area...the 3 bolts...maybe more.

[DanTheMan]

To test a starter motor, attach to a 12v power source, positve to field, negative to ground. If it spins freely it works. Next step, starter clutch...

[clt750]

sounds like starter clutch area...the 3 bolts...maybe more.

I was afraid this might be the case.