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Starters, like all electrical devices need two conductors, a Positive/hot wire from the starter switch, and a ground wire to the chassis or back to the battery. Sometimes, the ground may be internal to the starter and thus there is only a single terminal or wire connector for a Positive wire from the starter switch.
NOTE: The first step is to make sure that the transmission is in NEUTRAL!!!!! Also, leave the ignition switch off.
On most motorcycles there is usually a wiring harness connector at the starter. I disconnect that harness [or if there is only a single wire to a terminal on the starter then disconnect it], and test the starter by connecting a wire from the ground wire [usually black] in the starter connector to the frame of the cycle, or to the battery negative terminal. This step is not necessary IF the starter is grounded internally.
I then connect another wire to the hot wire [or terminal] on the starter or connector [Or the terminal on the starter if it is internally grounded.
I then just very monetarily touch the other end of that wire to the Positive terminal of the battery.
IF the starter cranks the engine, it is probably good. Sometimes, IF the brushes in the starter are worn out [or "glommed-up" with Carbon dust or other debris] the starter may try to crank the engine, but unsuccessfully.
If the starter does not do anything, or tries but can't crank the engine, then it may be worn out and needs an overhaul or replacement.
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∙ 14y ago
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