Starter noise - Curvy.

Got a 2000curvy which sounds like a bag of spanners when the starter button is pushed. Sounds like a clonking sound as it spins.

Starter motor or starter clutch perhaps?
not sure where to start.

Thanks

[squirrel_hunter]

It sounds like power is getting to the starter so not the usual problems there. The description of the sound ties with your possibilities (or at least where I would be looking).

I would check the starter motor first. Remove it from the engine, only two bolts and a bit of a tug as it seals with an o-ring that I have had no problems reusing in the past. Check there is no damage or wear to the gear end. Ground it on the engine cases and press the starter. Don't leave it for to long as it will get hot, drain your battery, and there is no need to. Do you still have the noise?

No? Then check the starter clutch. Remove the left hand side engine cover. You will need to remove the sprocket cover and disconnect the clutch first. You may loose some oil so have something under the bike to catch it. Chances are you will need to replace the gasket, I would.

Check the starter clutch behind alternator, are all the teeth there? Then check the transfer gears from the starter clutch to the start motor. You are looking for damage to the teeth, excessive wear, missing teeth, and excessive play.

What did you find?

Also which model of SV specifically?

Thanks for the info, I will start there.

It's a 650S. On an X plate, certainly ran fine when bump started. Not been used for a while so need to get the carbs cleaned out first job.

Thanks again.