a smack noise when starting

[jefferygs500]

hey, I went out this morning and started the bike, and when i push the start button theres a pretty loud smack noise from some wheres. it only makes the noise when i click the button for the first time, it doesn't make it anymore, unless i leave the bike alone and try again a good while after. sounds like it's coming from the clutch cover i'm not sure tho,
thanks

[sledge]

I am thinking it could be the noise generated by an electrical arc flashing over to to earth because it ties in with the start button being pressed. I would be removing all the covers and panels, inc the one over the starter motor and carefully examining all the cables and connections particularly on the HT side for evidence of damage etc.

[jefferygs500]

whats the hT side man?

[sledge]

By HT I mean the High Tension side of the ignition circuit...the spark-plug leads.

[scratch]

I was thinking it was either the solenoid opening or closing, or the starter motor solenoid (the one that engages the starter gear with the whatever-it's-called gear (idler starter gear?  Clutch?).

[Blueknyt]

unless i leave the bike alone and try again a good while after. sounds like it's coming from the clutch cover

thinking more along the lines of posible starter clutch (sprag drive)  worn, can scare the hell outa ya but gen happens when its cold

[Thor S Magic Bathtub]

Yeah, mine makes the same sound, particularily when it's cold outside and I'm trying to start it for the first time. Let me know if you find the problem... I haven't done anything about it since I got the bike last year and it hasn't gotten any worse but hasn't gotten any better either.

[GeeP]

+1

A really loud Thwack! that sounds like you hit the engine case with a small hammer?  Best as I can tell that's the starter sprag clutch.  Mine does the same thing every now and then during the winter.  One day it will annoy me enough to rip it apart and find out why they fail so easily.