starter spinning but motor is not

[chiefbong360]

well the starters good and spins. its lined up with all the gears properly but its not turning over the engine. the big gear behind the magnito is just spinning freely. I can get it to turn over the engine by spinning that big gear by hand but when i put the side cover back on and try it it just spins. is there some kind of release to keep the starter from spinning while the engine is running?

[babiak400ex]

Here is what trouble shooting says in the clymer service manual. Starter motor turns but but does not crank engine. 1. Worn or damaged starter clutch. 2. Damaged teeth on starter motor shaft or redution gears. Hope that is some help.

[chiefbong360]

yep the starter clutch bearing was bad. thanks for the help