Question1983 honda 650SC nighthawk with approx 21,000 miles on it. It hesitates when starting, kind of turns over slowish,goans, then stops, then turns again and starts. I have two of these bikes and the other (45,000 miles) cranks over very quickly. It seems that after its been started the first time that day, that it then starts normally after that. It has a new battery, and is kept on a float charger. Battery and starter connections have been cleaned, main fuse cleaned. I can't understand why the first start of the morning is so slow and undependable but later its fine. I'm afraid one of these mornings its not going to start. Any ideas of what to check.
Thanks in advance for your time, Larry
AnswerHi Larry,
The primary cause of this problem is worn starter motor brushes. Other causes include: worn or defective starter motor, worn or defective starter motor clutch, defective or burned starter solenoid contacts, burned or defective starter button contacts, worn or defective clutch/side stand/neutral safety switch, high resistance in starter motor leads due to corrosion, poor conductivity due to loose, dirty, or corroded conductors and connectors, sluggish starter performance due to build up of carbon powder or defective plain bearings.
Consider removing the starter motor and inspect the carbon brushes. Measure the length of the brushes and compare measurements with service manual specifications. Replace brushes if length is not within service limits. (FYI... brushes are about 3/4" long when new.)
See parts microfiche at "www.bikebandit.com"
Respectfully,
Mark Shively
