1999 400EX Starter Noises

[Just-Tri-It]

When I push the button to start the 400ex the starter makes a terrible chattering type noise. Usually have to stop and try it 3 or 4 times before it stays in and starts the motor. Is the starter gone or can it be repaired?
Thanks

[steven 250sx]

starters can be rebuilt/repaired but I would just buy a second hand one it's cheaper.

[f4istunna]

usally find them on fleabay for around $25. Are you sure its the starter and not starter clutch?

[jensenracing77]

the starter isn't your problem. you need a starter clutch. it is a bearing looking device on the back of the flywheel. when you get a new one i would recommend getting the one way clutch and the outer housing both. some people just get the clutch part because it is cheeper but it won't last that long without changing the outer part.

[trikes4life]

yup usually that fixes it

[Just-Tri-It]

the starter isn't your problem. you need a starter clutch. it is a bearing looking device on the back of the flywheel. when you get a new one i would recommend getting the one way clutch and the outer housing both. some people just get the clutch part because it is cheeper but it won't last that long without changing the outer part.


Do you have a pic of the parts you are talking about or a link to them on ebay so I will know what they look like and order the right parts. This is the first 400ex I've owned. Got it for my daughter and I am a Tri-z guy. Is the clutch on the inside of the starter or outside of it. I think it will be a pretty easy fix if I get the right parts. Thanks for the help.

[smokinwrench]

Get on bikebandit and you can see the breakdown of the parts. I have a manual on it if you need any info after you get the parts.

[jensenracing77]

try this link. it is number 4 under the starter gear window. it is more money but number 3 should also be replaced at the same time. most people don't and get away with it but if it is not real smooth you will want to change it.


http://www.bikebandit.com/houseofmotorcycles/1999-honda-motorcycle-trx400ex-fourtrax-ex/o/m2656#sch94154

[jensenracing77]

if you are on a budget, just get number 5 and hope for the best. you would most likely get a couple years out of it.

[Just-Tri-It]

if you are on a budget, just get number 5 and hope for the best. you would most likely get a couple years out of it.

Money isn't the problem, just want to make sure I get the right parts. What other number besides number 5. What about 4 and does the manual give details on the steps to repair it. Is Cycle Parts Nation the best place to get the parts? Thanks

[jensenracing77]

to do it right you need number 4 and number 3. number 4 comes with number 5 so if you go the full thing you do not need to order a number 5 or you will have two of them.

boy, to many numbers

[Just-Tri-It]

Thanks guys. I replaced number 3, 4 and 5 as a set and she fired right up. Do you think it was just the age of it been a 1999 that caused it to go out or are there certain factors that cause them to go bad quicker. I want to avoid this as long as I can.
Thanks

[Just-Tri-It]

Thanks guys. I replaced number 3, 4 and 5 as a set and she fired right up. Do you think it was just the age of it been a 1999 that caused it to go out or are there certain factors that cause them to go bad quicker. I want to avoid this as long as I can.
Thanks

[jensenracing77]

it is just something that happens. the 450ER will do it faster than the 400EX will. there is not really anything you can do to make it last longer other than what you did by changing all the parts at the same time.