Motorcycle Repair: Starter install 1998 Yamaha Virago 1100, starter solenoid, 4 quarts

Question
I had just bought a new starter for my 98 virago and was wondering what is the best way to go about taking the old one out and install the new?

Answer
Hi Randall...

Ok.. I would start by suggesting you get a manual that covers your model bike... they are invaluable in such a task. You will also need a left side engine cover gasket and a little less than 4 quarts of engine oil (you'll need to drain the oil from the engine to do this repair). First, unhook the battery to safeguard from shorts. Drain the engine oil. Disconnect the clutch cable down at the engine. There is a small cover to gain access to where the cable connects to the arm. Remove the left side foot contols and the shifter linkage. Disconnect the fat cable that runs to the starter solenoid just above the starter. Also disconnect the short fat cable that runs from the solenoid to the starter. There is a small cover on the left side of the engine, right where the starter meets the engine. Remove this cover and you will see a bolt that requires a large sized torx bit to remove. Remove that torx bolt. Remove all the bolts from the left side engine cover and remove the cover. There is at least one bolt inside the area where the clutch cable connects, don't forget that one. Also, the bolts are different lengths, so keep them in order so as to make it easy to remember which bolt goes back in which hole!! You may need to tap the engine cover with a rubber mallet to get it to let go. Once the cover is off all ya gotta do is remove the two bolts that hold the starter down and the starter should pull out from the right side. Installation is pretty much the reversal. Use a new gasket on the engine cover. Make sure you put oil back in the engine. The last thing to do is hook the battery back up. My instructions are kinda vague as this procedure is kind of lengthy... that's why I suggest you get a manual before undertaking the task. Hope this helps ya Randall!!! Good Luck and Ride Safe!!!

Jack