Evo starter problem

[Gary Willey]

The starter on my 99' fatboy makes a grinding noise once in awhile (about every 3 or 4 starts). I read an article in AIM awhile back about this but don't have it now. I remember something about clearance at the jackshaft and the option of using an after-market one piece shaft. The battery is in good shape (1 year old & always on a maintainer) and I recently installed Terry components cables. Any advise would be greatly appreciated. Gary

[humpbackbob]

Return spring, maybe?

[greg swift]

if it was a twin cam i would say starer clutch

[wydeglyde]

Check and make sure that your battery is in good shape. This is one of the most common causes of what you are describing. Even though a battery passes a load test it may not have enough oomph to get that starter properly engaged each and every time you push the button. If you've had the same battery for 4 or 5 years I recommend replacing it.

In the meantime keep it hooked up to a battery tender or similar charger. A freshly charged battery should perform better and will help you in your troubleshooting.