Starting motor issues 86 Gs400 E

[Guest]

Hey guys,
I am having a frustrating issue, my starter motor has stopped working and this is not the first time I've replaced it.
The issue like last time started when the bike sat in the rain. Could it be some wires that are getting wet? I've had another gs that didn't have these issues, so I know this isn't normal.
What are my options, would getting a new starter and wires solve the problem?
what is your guys' ideas?

Thanks
Andrew

[Steve]

Are you sure it's the starter? Have you checked the solenoid? Have you checked the battery?

Make SURE the transmission is in neutral. Use a screwdriver about which you don't care too much, short across the two large terminals on the solenoid. You WILL see sparks (if the motor works). If the motor works by shorting across the solenoid, use a test light to see if the solenoid is getting a "start" signal from the starter button. If it is (and the solenoid is not clicking), verify that the solenoid's ground wire has a good connection. If there is a good connection, you likely have a bad solenoid. Go to your local vendor of large yard equipment (or maybe Princess Auto), get a solenoid for a yard tractor. Should cost about $12-15 and will bolt right in.

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[HAMMERHT]

Hey Steve, I originally thought it was the solenoid too last time so I got a new one.
Could a solenoid go in 4 months?

[HAMMERHT]

I've checked the solenoid and it works, the bike starts when I put the screwdriver over the solenoid.

[Steve]

OK, if the solenoid "works", you are saying that it clicks and the starter motor turns when you push the button?

If so, what is the problem?

If you are saying that the starter motor turns when bridging the solenoid terminals but NOT when pushing the button, verify input from the start button. Keep in mind that the wire from the starter button goes through a clutch switch, unless you have bypassed that "safety" feature.

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[HAMMERHT]

Problem solved, the solenoid bolts were loose and wet.
That solved the problem, thanks for the help.

[Steve]

Thanks for the follow-up, nice to hear that it is working.

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