DOHC starter gear breakage

[MechanicalDad]

Hello Everyone!

Has anyone had any trouble with the DOHC starter gearing?
I was riding my 1983 XS400 Maxim and after stopping for an errand, the starter button no longer caused the engine to turn over, and the rear wheel was locked up.
I pulled the starter and found that the gear the starter connects to is loose inside the case. I've looked at all the diagrams I can find, and it really looks like the cases would have to be split in order to fix this. Anyone know otherwise?

 

[bentwrench]

Sorry - no quick answer. But from what you're saying, likely yes, an opening is required.

 

[MechanicalDad]

Thanks bentwrench. That is what I thought, but sometimes there are weird solutions to things like that...

I was planning on selling this bike anyway, so look for a post in the classifieds soon!