660 Starter spins?

[Raiden]

This past weekend, my 660 started "spinning" when trying to start. The motor is not turning over but I can hear the starter motor spinning up like crazy. It would do this occasionally and then suddenly work. I've pulled the starter gear cover off and those gears look fine. I pulled the side cover to the magneto off and the internal gears look fine. I assume that in behind the large flywheel magnet is where the problem is? I havent been able to get the thing off yet though.

Wanted to know if this is a common problem?

[Raiden]

Well after pulling everything apart and more research it does appear to be a common problem.

Thanks anyhow.

[cjkranz]

Starter clutch issues, huh?

[Raiden]

Yea. I am surprised that with such a glaring flaw that Yamaha did not do more to fix the issue. Glad there is a proven and reliable fix. Bummed that it is so expensive since I need to replace the idler gear as well from the excessive wear from the stock starter clutch. <sigh> However sounds like this will be a one time fix and should last the life of the bike.