[abw121]

I am new to your site and need some help.
Can someone out there give me some advice on starters for a 97 Fatboy?
I have 5800 miles on the bike and have R&R the starter twice in two months.
I have discovered the same overunning clutch has failed again.

[Grease Gun]

Originally Posted by abw121

I am new to your site and need some help.
Can someone out there give me some advice on starters for a 97 Fatboy?
I have 5800 miles on the bike and have R&R the starter twice in two months.
I have discovered the same overunning clutch has failed again.

Is the motor built? A high compression motor may need a high tourque starter. Timing too far advanced can tear up a starter. Also check for mechanical damage to the starter shaft and clutch ring gear.

[abw121]

No the motor is 100 percent stock, I checked the timing and starter gear for any damage when I replaced the starter the first time, I tuned the bike up right after the first starter. I have the second starter out right now and just looked at the starter and clutch gears again and see no signs of any damage. I think the starter clutch (inside of starter) is just made of junk and fails to soon. The bike cranks over easy even when hot or cold, It startsup within one or two trys even after sitting for a few days..... This bike has been a pleasure to own or ride up till the fist starter failed then again now. I cannot see investing big buck for OEM or 1.4 or 2.0 Kw starter unless someone can prove the need.

Thanks for the ideas, keep them coming in, I will try anything now!!!

[CD]

First, you might want to read this article for an explanation as to why it is happening.

https://www.directparts.com/static/a...ycle_gears.htm

The gear ratio change has caused many problems like this. Also, you can replace the stock clutch and save the $$$

https://www.directparts.com/cgi-bin/...Product/28-960

The back side of the ring gear can have some small chips and this will grind more off of the pinion which grinds bigger chunks off the ring gear. I would remove the clutch and inspect the ring gear. The starter clutches are not that bad but the newer gear ration strains the hell out of them.