Problems starting

[ca0kri]

Hi,

I'm having problems starting my XJ400. it just makes a clicking sound (just one click not continuous like when the battery is dead) when i try and turn it over, it's not the Battery as I've charged that up and tested it. I've jump started the bike and it runs fine after that, until you stop and try to start it again.

how can you tell if the starter motor is on the way out?

cheers.

[Fiasco]

Hi

I would say starter motor is a good bet, ideally you need to take it apart and check the brushes, and give it a good clean up.

Could also be problems with connection to the battery, have you checked and cleaned the connectors lately ?

Good Luck

Dave ;D

[cam7777]

Saying that you can jump start it probably points towards the connections.

important to check all earthing points too.

[darren]

continuos clicking would indicate

1/ bad connections(battery,earth etc)
2/starter solaniod or bad connections to it
3/battery not holding its charge (jump start from a car to find out)

solaniod can be tested with crossing an old screwdriver over the contacts quickly, as it will weld if you leave it on, and it sparks a lot so no petrol leaks would be a bonus

[ando7p]

Stripping the starter might be the best idea. Mine played up a few years back and sat there clicking. Turned out to be a burr on the end stopping the whole thing spinning out. Only takes about an hour to strip, clean and rebuild so worth doing just to rule it out.