Newb with some issues... Please help!

[Chops603]

I am a newb to the site, but not to the forum world. I recently purchased a 99 400ex and am having some issues. I searched/read for hours on end trying to find a solution, but keep going into circles. So hopefully I won't get bashed too bad for something that has already been posted hundreds of times.

New issue as of yesterday:

Starter just spins when I press the start button. I was out riding it the other day, shut it off at the switch and then it would not start back up. Just spins freely :grr:

Now I have read about it being the starter clutch, one way bearing, starter, solenoid... My head is spinning as everyone seems to have there own answer/individual issue that may be a bit different.

I am reaching out in hopes that someone can help me diagnose so I can get back to riding. As of right now, the starter is off the bike. If anyone has any insight, it would be much appreciated. I have plenty of tools and know how to use them. My next move was just to pull the side cover off and inspect to see if I can physically see anything that is malfunctioning.

Please help!!!!

[CJM]

If the starter just spins and spins the solenoid is not the culprit, the one way starter bearing is. Its a common thing to go bad.

[Chops603]

Thanks for the quick reply, any part # or other info?? Appreciate the reply

[CJM]

Pretty sure its number 5 http://www.motosport.com/atv/oem-parts/HONDA/2000/TRX400EX/STARTER-GEAR

[Chops603]

So this is where I am at... I pulled the side cover, I have read about needing a special tool to pull the flywheel. Link to said tool? Is it really needed? I have air tools, impact gun and every size wrench imaginable... I also noticed a coolant/oil mix type substance on what I believe to be the stator... I took some pictures of what I have done so far.

I hate removing more than I have to, how exactly do I remove the flywheel? All allen heads and large bolt in center? Is the clutch piece I need to replace directly behind it??

The oil did drain clean, not sure why the stator looks as it does caked in cream colored goo. Is it normal? Would it hurt anything if I cleaned it with brake cleaner? Or should it be like that?

Here are the pictures from this AM. Again any help/tips are appreciated. Aside from the no start issue, the neutral light is on at all times no matter what gear its in. I assume this is an easy fix, but not sure how to go about it.

Thanks in advance

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h125/chopsonu/IMAG0537-1.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h125/chopsonu/IMAG0542-1.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h125/chopsonu/IMAG0538-1.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h125/chopsonu/IMAG0540-1.jpg

[Chops603]

Nobody wants anything to do with this now :confused: Sure could use a little more help. Would like to get the bike back up to running condition... :(

[powerbomb400]

I believe the goo is to insulant the stator. Its a dry goo correct. To pull the flywheel off its a puller is the tool they are talking about. The onside of the case looks good and clean. The 400ex motor is a air-cooled motor so there isn't any coolant. Not sure about the cleaner on the stator but you can wipe off the inside. Get the parts to get the starter working again and get it cranked up.

[Chops603]

I am ordering the starter clutch now... Along with a few new gaskets.

Anyone know what #8 does?? I do not have that wire connected on this bike. Could this be why my neutral light is always on??

http://www.bikebandit.com/houseofmotorcycles/1999-honda-trx400ex-fourtrax-ex/o/m2656#sch94092

[Stickman400]

Actually it would be the opposite. If that wire isn't connected the neutral light would never be on.

[Chops603]

Well, the neutral light is always on and there is no wire connected to the sensor next to the engine cover. Apparently the PO wired the light to stay on all the time?!

[powerbomb400]

Maybe CJM will chime in. The relay might be one that has to be push in to turn the light off. On mine the there is a reverse relay beside the neutral one. I'm sure there will be others to chime in and help.

[CJM]

Number 8 is the neutral light sensor. Without it working properly the bike wont start (well it may if someone jimmyed it)

The wire goes into a hole in the side cover. If any part of that is messed up you got an issue.

[Chops603]

Thank you, seeing I already placed my order yesterday for the other parts. I will try calling today to see if I can add it or ill have to see what happens if I just run a wire to it.