Starter Problem

[J V McLure]

During some recent startings, I have encountered a problem. Not sure what is going on. Hope you guys can help.

When I hit the starter button, it will crank like heck for a few seconds and then suddenly stop with a clank. I hit the button again and it does not turn over. I wait a few seconds, hit the button and it turns over well and starts.

What the heck is wrong?

Thanks!

[Joe Hummer]

I would start by checking your starter button. 

http://www.valkyrieriders.com/shoptalk/VSGPages/starterbutton.htm

Joe

[R J]

Then read the other 2 posts about starter problems posted tonight.

[J V McLure]

Mine will still turn over and start. For some reason, sometimes when cranking is will go "clunk" and stop cranking. Then, after a few moments, it will crank again.
twelve
That is not how a bad relay acts is it?

This is a 97 Valk with only 257 miles on her. She was in storage for twelve years.

[Ratdog]

Mine will still turn over and start. For some reason, sometimes when cranking is will go "clunk" and stop cranking. Then, after a few moments, it will crank again.
twelve
That is not how a bad relay acts is it?

This is a 97 Valk with only 257 miles on her. She was in storage for twelve years.

Rule it out.  The relay is in excess of $70 and the wiring harness is in excess of $300 (no labor included).  Ensure it's clean/corrosion free/dry and continue the search.

[Chrisj CMA]

with parts that "new" but a bike that "old"  Id say its the battery

[MP]

If you have not replaced the battery, put in a new Yousa.  Then try again.  Like Chris, I would give that a 90% chance of working.

MP

[Joe Hummer]

Instead of going through the expense of buying a new battery, why don't you try starting your bike with your car battery...key off...use jumper cables to connect it to your bike.  If your bike starts fine on the car battery, then I would say you need to charge or replace your battery.  It it doesn't...then I would start looking at switches/relays.

But...before I replaced the battery, unless I knew the battery was pretty old, I would check the voltage drop when starting the bike.  I would also check the alternator when running to make sure it is charging. 

Joe