start lever not engaging

GT66GG · Mar 22, 2010

Hi,
I am a first time user, can someone tell me what my problem may be and how easy it will be to fix.
When I try to kick start my MK3 it does not engage properly and just slips, the lever to the shaft is fine, it is sliping on the inside, I can try and re engage to compression but as soon as I put any effert into kicking over it slips again like it has striped the engagement.
any ideas?
Gordon

kommando · Mar 22, 2010

There is ratchet tooth inside on the kickstart spindle that engages with a set of teeth cut inside of the layshaft 1st gear, as its a single point of wear they do wear out and give the symptoms you describe, there are stronger ones now available with a M cast on one side. You gain access by taking the outer and inner gearbox covers off, so make sure you have a set of gaskets and the correct tools before starting.

grandpaul · Mar 22, 2010

Remote possiblity is also that your clutch is disengaged for a variety of possible reasons, so the hub is slipping through without engaging the crankshaft through the friction of the clutch stack to the basket.

Cable, lever adjuster, actuator arm, and clutch rod can all bind on one way or another.

swooshdave · Mar 22, 2010

grandpaul said:
Remote possiblity is also that your clutch is disengaged for a variety of possible reasons, so the hub is slipping through without engaging the crankshaft through the friction of the clutch stack to the basket.

Cable, lever adjuster, actuator arm, and clutch rod can all bind on one way or another.

Can I assume that a bad pawl would just allow the kickstarter to swing through, not really slipping but not offering much resistance?

Another possibility for a new Norton owner is assuming you can start the bike with the clutch pulled in. Some people are just use to pulling in the clutch and hitting the start button. :mrgreen:

GT66GG · Mar 23, 2010

Thanks All,
I would have to agree with Kommand as this is what I roughly expected !
I will have to have a look at a decent repair manual.

I havent been able to use the Electric start for the last 10 years when it was taken off.
Thats why the son - inlaw is always amazed at the old mans calf muscle.

kommando · Mar 23, 2010

Not a MK3 manual but would be a good start to know what is inside.

http://rocbo.lautre.net/technique/norto ... index.html

And the MK3 Factory manual could be at this link (confirmed, you want page 73)

http://www.sendspace.com/file/kaw6ne

GT66GG · Mar 30, 2010

Thanks Kommando,
I have been away with work and just got your link, that is a great help a very much appreciated.
Regards,
Gordon.

MarshalNorton · Mar 30, 2010

GT,
my pawl also slips on occassion.
It's on the replacement list when I tear into the gear box.
OldBritts.com tech section has excellent instructions on tear down.
Also if the 1st gear layshaft is worn no sense putting good parts on bad ones.
Buy the gear as well. It would be like replacing one shoe.
If they are not rounded out on the inside of the gear you are spared the extra expense.
A new pawl and worn gear will work just not last as long.
I was advised of this here a while ago.
Kick is Good.
Marshal

Fullauto · Mar 30, 2010

I had this problem a while ago and when I got into it I found that the previous rebuilder had put the pawl in the wrong way around. A new pawl (just to be sure-they're cheap) and away I went. A fairly simple and straightforward exercise.

Nelson · Mar 30, 2010

If 1st gear layshaft isn't too badly worn you can rebush it when you replace the pawl and that may help, at least for a while.

start lever not engaging

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