I just bought a 1980 xs400 and I'm having a hard time

[Joe Gagliardi]

I purchased the bike from a guy through facebook marketplace and its my first bike. Unfortunately, I let the "Oh my god, its a motorcycle" cloud my head when I went to go look at it. The bike runs but the starter button doesn't work (it kicks just fine though with a jump). Upon getting it home and replacing the battery, pressing the start button is met with an audible click from the solenoid and the sound of something spinning but it never starts.

What could be my issue? He said he replaced the starter, and its the solenoid that needs replacing but it wouldn't click if it was broken correct?

The turn signals turn on but do not blink either. I also removed the seat and found that the wiring is a little sketchy and seems like it will need to be redone. The fusebox looks like it was bypassed entirely. is it possible to just buy a new harness and just (for lack of a better term) plug everything back in?

I really need help and I feel like I'm in over my head.


Thanks for any responses.

 

[SoulMan]

Most likely the start clutch needs to be serviced.

https://www.yamahapartshouse.com/oemparts/a/yam/50041eb4f8700209bc78692e/starter-clutch

Read this...

http://www.xs400.com/threads/how-to-starter-clutch-renovation-rotor-removal.7989/

If you probably want to try to start it once you get the alternator cover off then you can see if the starter chain is moving when you try to start it. Most likely if it is moving them yes the starter clutch needs service.

 

[SoulMan]

Also my recommendation rather than trying to use a screw driver to stop the rotor is to get a strap wrench. Something like this:

https://www.sears.com/craftsman-strap-wrench-small/p-00945533000P

Works great for me.

 

[Joe Gagliardi]

Thanks guys, any idea about the wiring?

 

[SoulMan]

Look for the wiring diagram on the forums for your model bike and read some of the other threads related to wiring. It might just be that the fuse box melted. I don't think anyone makes a drop in wiring harness. But you can make your own if you need to but you might not need to do so. Maybe you just need to solder in a new fuse box.