Motorcycle Repair: Starter Problem, jackshaft, starter problem

Question
QUESTION: The starter on my '95 Electraglide Classic runs but the solenoid does not engage. How do I troubleshoot to determine what's wrong?
I bought the bike new and neither the transmission nor the engine has been opened. The primary cover was opened about a month ago to replace a leaky seal.This was done by the dealer that sold me the bike and has done 99% of maintenance. I should mention that the odometer reads about 102,000 miles(163,000km)
Thanx, Jerry

ANSWER: What you need to do is first is see if the jackshaft is moving. remove the derby cover and witha  flashlight watch the jackshaft while somebody presses the starter button. If it moves then you probably have a broken jackshaft. If it doenst then the starter needs removed and tested. there are about 5 tests to do, but you would need a service manual to see how to do the tests, or you can have it tested at a bike shop.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The jackshaft extends but does not engage.It spins until it hits the ring gear,stops and spins again as it returns.

Is it possible that the this problem is caused by a misalignment oo the primery cover?

If shaft is broken does the whole starter need removing or can the solenoid only be removed?

Thanx, Jerry  

Answer
First, make sure the battery is good as well as the cables. Also, make sure you dont have a big voltage drop to the starter when the starter button is pushed. Last, pull the starter and test it to make sure its not bad
Good luck and happy riding
Mike