Starter does not engage

I have a 2001 Dyna Wide Glide, I started up just fine this morning, rode to work then I shut it off to open the gate, when I went to start it the starter just spun, I tried several times with no luck. I pushed it in gear to jog the engine incase it was in a funny spot, no luck. I noticed last weekend that the starter was kinda slipping as if it has a cluch or something? I have a lot of mechanical experience with engines, however this is my first Harley and my service manual is at home. From my experience it seems like the solenoid, on most newer engines I have worked on you replace both starter and solenoid is it the same way with my Harley? or could it be because the battery might be low and there is not enough umph to kick the solenoid? It didn't seem to be low when I started up this morning.
Thanx,
Jeff.

I feel ya man... I have experience with automobliles too and when the starter acted funny, it was time to look at the solenoid first. Then I began to have starter problems with my Harley... Turned out the battery was shot... Don't know why it was that way, but it was. My one buddy told me to check the batt first... Soon as I load tested it, nada... And that was after a day long trickle charge... Hope this helps... Peace

If your starter just spins without grinding or if it spins and makes a screeching noise your starter clutch is probably toast. The starter clutch is really the same thing as the Bendix a one way clutch. If the starter tries to turn backwards, the clutch free wheels to prevent damage. Just like a Bendix, they wear out after awhile and with the kick back it can wear out faster.

If, it is grinding, jumping and eventually does start your pinion has probably chewed some teeth off of the ring gear. Both can be changed out and you can even go back to the earlier gearing.

Starter Problems

Had the same problem on my 97 softtail. Figured the starter was toast. I was in MB SC when it croaked. Called a friend and took battery to have it tested. Bingo! Replaced battery and no more probs. good luck
HarleyWyld1

Thanks for the input it ended up being the starter cluch. The replacement was not too difficult but the part wasn't cheap.

How much is expensive? Don't tell me you bought the O.E. HD?

It was Friday and the Dealership is right down the street therefore I got.....
1 quart of oil
1 Primary chain cover gasket
1 Inspection cover gasket
2 Tower gaskets
3 o-rings
1 starter cluch
$176.00 and some change.
So, did I pay double?
I went back on Saturday and bought a battery.....
$90.00.
I did a search on this web site but it came up with no match?
I am also a bit leary about buying stuff online for my Harley after purchasing a sissy bar bag from leatherup. It looked nice in the add but when I recieved it it was very thin and floppy. I also got some gloves and a helmet that are ok but if I had seen them in person I would have chose something else. They have a 30 day return garentee so I will see how that works, too much hassel.