Anyone know what coulda caused this....

[Phat_Kaw]

I just got back from a ride and was getting ready to head out again. I put it in first and start to go it dies...no problem. Only thing is there was a strange clicking and "light running" sound. I try shutting it off at the kill switch, its still doing it. i switch it back on and try to start it, still making that sound. But every time I let out on the clutch it starts to go, engine not running mind you. I tried the kill switch several times, I even turned the key off and still made that sound. Took the key OUT and still making the sound. All I can do is sit there and hold the clutch until apparently the battery died cuz now that lights wont even come on. I disconnected the battery and put it up, hoping someone here would have a clue. My one buddy said could be the "solenoid", so any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[wayne1001]

Sounds like the starter is constantly turning

[jbsmd]

Somethings causing that starter to engaged. Check out the starter system. Could be in the ignition switch...what kind of bike are we talking here? That 800 classic?

[Phat_Kaw]

Yea its an 800 classic, sorry forgot to mention that.

[Vulcan900]

It sounds like you had an electric scooter there for a while!!! I concur with what was stated previously. Something in your starter circuit kept the starter connected to the battery until it drained the battery. I have never heard of this happening before.

[NCDave]

yeah, not common, but sounds like the starter stuck.

[THRILLA]

something like that used to happen wit VW Beatles, fix was to give them a light rap on the starter.

[Phat_Kaw]

Well I like my bike to be different and all but this is a lil ridiculous...lol. Thanks for the advice though. I was at a rally when it happened lots of dust and jarring around, could that of caused the starter to get stuck open??I got the battery charging now, and havent tried to start it just yet.

[nomidlname]

it's possible. you can try and take a small hammer and lightly tap the starter solenoid. If that doesn't work you can pull the wires and use a volt/ohm meter to see if your starter switch is operating correctly. If it is then pull the starter/solenoid and see if your local kawi shop has a replacement solenoid or starter. Not sure if they are attached like on a car or not... I doubt it's worth trying to rebuild it but I could be wrong.

[Phat_Kaw]

Your talkin about tapping the starter thats down at the bottom front of the bike right?? And the "starter switch" being up on the handlebars,or the key??

[snardle]

Make sure that the starter button isn't stuck.

[rustydog]

Make sure that the starter button isn't stuck.

If it was a stuck starter button the starter would disengage when the key was off. Sounds like a stuck solenoid. If taping on it frees it, do NOT run the bike until the solenoid is replaced.

[rustygunner]

Two or three good blows to the starter with a large screwdriver handle or something like it. Make sure your battery is in good condition and fully charged too. My Camaro did the same thing whenever the battery was run down. I still have no idea why.

[rustygunner]

Yea, starter solenoid is stuck. Stuck starter button would not cause that with the key off.

[Phat_Kaw]

I'm more of parts changer than a mechanic. Anyone know how hard it is to change a "starter solenoid"? Also does it go by a different name? I've looked in my shop book and on bikebandit.com and cant find that name anywheres.

[MFolks]

A cheaper stater solenoid can be found at the local riding lawn mower repair shop for under $20. The Kawasaki store wants at least $100 but why pay their prices! Remove your old solenoid and using it as a sample see what will match up. Sears and John Deere sell solenoids for their equipment just look around.

A little wiring mod might be rerquired but look at the money not spent!

[rustygunner]

Huh, never thought of that. You can flip the large copper washer in your current solenoid as well.