SX/SXi/SXi Pro Starter spins, doesn't engage sometimes.

[sxi steve]

Ever since I added the a lightweight flywheel and advanced timing plate, maybe 1/4 to 1/2 the time when I hit the start button it doesn't engage fully (spins), hit it again and catches and cranks fine. It doesn't seem like it coming outward enough. It's been like this for a while. I think I should fully correct it, I fear I'll get stuck out on the lake eventually. Anyone have this issue? Solutions?

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[TOMtoledo]

Sounds like the bendix

 

[sxi steve]

If the starter and/or the bendix needs replacing does the flywheel have to come off?

 

[sxipro02]

No, two bolts for the starter, easy fix. I would say the problem is in the bendix though, You need to pull the fron cover to get it off. I cant remember if I had to pull the flywheel last time I did one, I think it does need to come off though.

 

[tor*p*do]

If its spinning its probably not the starter
pull the flywheel cover and flywheel and check you bendix
most likely it is not extending and retracting freely

 

[PLD]

Sounds like bendix, pull the front cover and yea you'll have to pull the flywheel. If you are still using a stock lightened 750 flywheel than you it should be an easy job after you get the pipe outta the way. If you dont feel like doing that remove the front cover and lube of the bendix, you may be able to get away with that for the rest of the season.

 

[sxi steve]

RAD lightweight flywheel. What type of lube, any grease type?

 

[509freerider]

Definatly bendix, I have had a couple do that. I have just taken and clean it with solvent, carb clean, gas and blown it out with compressed air. Then I will usually soak it in WD-40 and blow it out again. Don't know if its right, but its always worked for me.

 

[sxi steve]

Yeah, bendix, makes sense..., Is there anything I can do to it without taking the flywheel off and dealing with that at this time. Maybe hose it off real good with WD-40, with the front cover off. I'd like to fiddle with this in the winter, although the season just started. It's a low percentage issue, still, don't wanna get stranded on the lake if it really decides to act up.

 

[SXIPro]

Pay me now, or pay me later. Personally, I'd hate to get stranded. Plus ride season just began, fix it now and have a trouble free summer.

 

[sxi steve]

Yup, I hear ya.

 

[XJCrawler]

There's no avoiding it, you need to pull your flywheel and replace your bendix

 

[sxi steve]

Called the local Kawi dealer..., $110.

I see a bunch on ebay, from $30 - $60.

Any advise?

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[Hirschfelt]

get one new one off ebay. The problem with grease is that you do not want any moisture by the pickups. Pick ups are magnets any deposit either grease, water, oil with inhibit the reading and potentially lower performance. For $100 with shipping your better off to change it now. should only take 30 - 60 min total to do with proper tools. See if you can unhook the tank and push it forward. Use impact air wrench preferably a 90 degree one to take off the flywheel bolt. Use a torgue wrench to properly secure it back on. Good luck. Also yamaha and kawasaki use the same bendex. The only diff is where the washer goes.