Problems with my 78 750F Starter

[welovedon]

My electric start, when pressed, just makes some kind of noise.  The motor does not turn or do anything.

Right before my starter stopped working, I had just done 2 things to the bike:

1: Changed the oil (Rotella T6) and filter
2: Took off the stock muffler.  

The bike ran for a little bit (5mins) without the muffler and then turned off and wouldn't start.  After putting the muffler back on and giving it a couple of kick starts, it started to run again and I rode it for about 1 mile before pulling into my driveway.  I then turned it off and tried to start it again with the electric starter, but I get nothing, just that weird noise.  

The bike still runs if I use the kick start.

So am I screwed?  Do I need a new starter?

THanks in advance!
don

[shinyribs]

You can hear the starter motor spinning,but its not engaging the flywheel?Right?

[Peterwh]

Are you sure the battery is not flat?

[LukeM]

I would try to remove the starter, and hook it up to a battery (not a battery in a car with the engine running) and see what it does.  Connect the negative to the case, and the positive to the cable.  It should spin freely.  If not, I'd investigate burnt or worn brushes, or possibly worn bearings. Be careful when powering up the starter this way.  There is a LOT of torque in this motor, and it may spin right out of your grip.

Rebuilding the starter is pretty easy. Refer to the Factory Service manual.

Good luck, and let us know how it goes.
Luke M

[welovedon]

Yes the motor spinning but i guess its not engaging the flywheel.  

Could it be the battery?  Its only about a year old and has not been giving me any charge problems.

[shinyribs]

Im new to these bikes and am reading your post in hopes of gaining some knowledge.What kicks the bendix out on these starters?

[TOOLS1]

I believe vintagecb750.com has a kit to rebuild your starter drive. It's not hard to do. just study the manual before starting.
TOOLS