99 yamaha bear tracker 250

[Jodawg1981]

So not only do i have an issue with my suzuki but also a yamaha i got in trade. Basically when you jump the solenoid or push the start button all the starter does is spin. Does not engage motor. I know its not locked up. Guy that i got it from said starter was bad but i dont believe that one bit since it spins when you appmy power. Any ideas?

[Ted Craig]

Yea, maybe the polarity is backwards. Take the starter off and put your finger on the gear it should turn (in the whole). The starter needs to turn the direction the gear cant be pushed with your finger.  That resistance is the direction the starter should turn to start it. That is if this year bike doesn't jump out to engage like a car starter.

I believe the starter gear should turn right, it does on my yamaha. 

[Jodawg1981]

Ok thanks ill check that this afternoon

[Frank Angerano]

It  could  be the starter clutch. Its common and happens.   Pull the starter out and bench test it with 12v and see how she spins.  If the gear ⚙️ spins then the starter is fine.    That would leave only the starter clutch of the gear on the starter clutch lost a few teeth.   Shine a flashlight inside the engine and you can see the gear.  Make sure it has teeth. You can also stick your finger inside and try to spin it.  Its should spin free one way and not the other.   If it spins both ways then 100% stater clutch. 

[Jodawg1981]

So i pulled it apart and the gear that the starter connects to to turn one way bearing keeps coming off the shaft. Is there a way to fix it to stay on the shaft? Can i run a weld on the gear and shaft to lock it in place?