will not start - starter motor?

[IJOEMAN247]

I have a 3rd gen Magna that just decided not to start. I got some clicks from the starter solenoid then nothing. I replaced the starter solenoid and now I get strong clicking but no starting. Starter motor is not turning. I connected the starter straight to the battery and nothing. I removed starter motor and connected to the battery on the bench. It spun fine as far as I could tell. Reinstalled starter and nothing again.
Any ideas? Does a bad starter motor run on the bench?
Please help. I can't drop $100 on a starter if that is not the issue.
Thank you
Joey

[IJOEMAN247]

sorry I replaced the starter relay.

[hootmon]

Joey - It's always a great idea to use the search feature on a forum like this... Many times you will find your answer and a lot of additional information as well.

So what it seems like your describing MIGHT be a weak starter...
So, a couple of things 1st.. Check ALL of your connections.. I had an issue and one of the connectors was loose on the cable.

Another possibility is the "starter Clutch" which is under the clutch cover, but usually when it goes bad, the starter will spin, but you will get a gear chattering sound instead of turning the motor. I've had this issue and based on your description, doubt that this is your problem, but is still a possibility.

I have had 2 gen 3's and both have had starter issues. I don't know where you got the $100 figure from, a new starter from Honda is over $500.
You might want to do a search on what I will describe below.. But this is the gist...
You can buy a rebuild kit on e-bay for under $20. The only caution I would have on this is tightening the bolt that goes thru the starter case for the positive lug.. It mounts thru plastic for isolation, but is very easy to break!
You also need to clean the commutator (this is the copper area on the armature that the brushes ride on.) You need to be careful doing this.. Find a way to rotate the armature (a drill press turning slowly would come in handy for this) and use some emery cloth (very fine sand paper) and ONLY remove all the black from the copper; try to remove as  little copper as possible, just enough to smooth the surface a little). This black substance is residue left from the brushes and reduces the starter power. Once you have cleaned it up, use some brake cleaner or alcohol and a brush and clean all the areas between the copper bars.

Like I said, I've done this twice, and worked like a champ both times.. Under $20 and some time and PATIENCE!..

[IJOEMAN247]

thank you
that is good advice.

[TLRam1]

With a load on the starter your battery may be too weak. You can jump this with your car battery with the car not running.

[lragan]

Two points -- first, if you rebuild the starter, it is good practice to undercut the insulation between the contacts on the armature.  Not easy to do, and I doubt you will find a shop with the tool to do this.  If the insulation is flush with the contacts, it won't take long for carbon from the brushes, and bits of copper from the contacts, to bridge the gap, soon requiring another rebuild.

You didn't mention if the engine will turn over.  If you put the bike in 2nd or 3rd gear, push it to a fast walk and pop the clutch, does it turn over, or does the rear tire skid?

If a 3rd gen engine is maintained so it starts easily, a starter should last a very long time.