Bonneville America Forums Forums Technical Forums General Tech Starter motor removal

The shop manual is a little vague on removing the starter motor. I have removed 3 bolts from the motor casing and the 2 long bolts from the starter. I got it to move about an eighth of an inch by striking with a screw driver and hammer. It remains stuck and I do not what to strike it harder. What an I missing? The removal is related to the "will not start" thread and for the purpose of testing it.

Might oughtta put the two long bolts back in.. they hold the starter together. If it comes apart, it can be a bit tricky to reassemble. If memory serves, you should be there only the o-ring seal might be sticking in the case... might try some penetrating oil and some wiggling. Also, you may have to remove the oil cooler line to get it out.
Be aware that when it comes out, it's going to dump some oil so have a pan ready.

Thanks Chy. Having the starter fall apart would certainly caused the air to turn blue. I was trying to avoid removing the oil cooler line but it is awfully tight in there. If I remove the side casing will that ensure that all starter motor mounts have been released and will it give me a better view of what is happening?

What was needed was a clear view. I removed the brake line and engine protection bars which hold the foot pegs. This allowed me to work on the two bolts on that hold the starter in place. These bolts are to the left of the terminal when facing the starter. These run up at a 45 degree angle toward the back of the bike. I did not remove the side casing.