Motorcycle Repair: Starter issues, flstc heritage, leather saddlebags

Question
Hi Mike,

I've got a 1991 FLSTC Heritage Classic.  Recently, the starter began making a bit of a squealing sound during operation.  The bike would start up ok, but after about the first second or so of running the starter motor it would squeal a bit.  Is my starter on the way out? and if so is it a tough job to replace it (ie do i have to remove the Primary, etc#?  One more thing, I currently have stock leather saddlebags on my bike.  They are old and crusty.  They have the three rows on studs on the lid.  A friend of mine has a pristine set he wants to ship to me but they have 4 rows of studs on the lid.  Same shape and size, everything seems identical #he says they are off a 96).  I don't want him to ship them unless I'm sure they will fit.  Can you tell me why some sets of bags have three rows of studs and other have four? and if the 4 row bags will fit my 91?

Thanks

Answer
You probably have a bearing going out in your starter and it needs to be removed and checked. Yes, you do have to remove the primary cover, motor sprocket and clutch basket to get it out.
On your bags, they made a change in 96 on the bags. About the only thing you can do is try them. As long as the mounting holes lign up they should work fine
Good luck and happy riding
Mike