GS450L Starter Question

[TCBeard]

1981 GS450L
Just picked up this older bike and the starter button is broken.
I just put a full charge on the battery.
When I try to 'jump' across the two big posts on the starter relay I get nothing. No sparks or any reaction. What am I missing? The bike is in neutral, all the light work brightly, Shouldn't I get the starter to spin this way?
Thanks so much for the advice!

Scott

[Odinist]

Are you squeezing the clutch lever in?

[earlfor]

Are you squeezing the clutch lever in?

That would not matter. The clutch lever interlock is in the trigger wire circuit that activates the solenoid. Jumping the two large terminals on the solenoid bypasses that function.

Earl

[earlfor]

1981 GS450L
Just picked up this older bike and the starter button is broken.
I just put a full charge on the battery.
When I try to 'jump' across the two big posts on the starter relay I get nothing. No sparks or any reaction. What am I missing? The bike is in neutral, all the light work brightly, Shouldn't I get the starter to spin this way?
Thanks so much for the advice!
Scott

yes, jumping the two large terminals sends power to the starter. Since your lights and everything else work, you have ground, so I would say the problem is worn starter brushes.

Earl

[Odinist]

That would not matter. The clutch lever interlock is in the trigger wire circuit that activates the solenoid. Jumping the two large terminals on the solenoid bypasses that function.

Earl

D'oh, you're totally right. I need more coffee...

[TCBeard]

yes, jumping the two large terminals sends power to the starter. Since your lights and everything else work, you have ground, so I would say the problem is worn starter brushes.

Earl

OK...
So I guess I try and pull the starter and check the brushes.
Anything this rookie should know about pulling the starter? I can see the obvious screws holding it down... any surprises?
Are the brushes readily available?
Thanks!

[BassCliff]

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