I think I have a starter issue wheh the bike's hot...

[donnietorok]

Hey everybody. Been away for a while - work's been keeping me way too busy.

Anyhow, I have finally had an opportunity to get back in the saddle. I have noticed over the last few days that after long rides and the bike warmed up in the Florida heat, that the starter would only growl and grunt. No high speed spin. If I wait about 15 minutes, she'll spin like a mother and fire right up. I think it's in the starter. I had just put in a brand new battery two weeks ago when I installed a set of Vance & Hines 4 into 1's. (Hey, if you get the opportunity get a set of these. I didn't rejet or add pod filters, just removed the airbox cover and she SCREAMS. Really hard to keep the front wheel on the ground.) My diagnosis points to the starter because:
a) battery is new and strong.
b) charging system seems to be working consistently - lights aren't fading as I ride.
c) shouldn't be the stator - see b)
d) if it was a rectifier, she'd die altogether (right?)

So what's your opinion? Should I just drop a new ($269!!!) starter in her since I'm probably still running the factory original? Or, is there a way to pull the old one, clean & refurb her and keep her on the street?

The bike is an '82 GS 1100 E, 65-70,000 miles. Besides the new pipes, she's stock, in decent shape and a great runner. Let me know your opinions.

Please and thanks!
Donnie

[EZ-Rider]

My 82 had the same problem this summer, cranked when cold, but would hardly turn over when hot. Turned out to be my starter, brushes were totally worn out. sounds like you might have the same problem. did you check all your electrical connections from battery to starter solenoid to the starter itself?


if you do need a starter check out stockers, bought mine from them, they also sell rebuild kits if your commutator (what the brushes ride on) isnt destroyed (mine was)

good luck!

http://www.stockers.com/

[donnietorok]

You rock!

Hey, thanks a bunch. Those are some great prices for a rebuilt starter. I'm going to go through my troubleshooting again (when I can get some time) and just order a starter if that's truly the case.

Thanks!

[Pete Logan]

Starter rebuilds around here are about $60. Prolly cheaper where you are.