Darmah sprag clutch failure ?

[Aicorner]

I have a 1979 Dramah SD. Good condition, usually starts first time. For some reason she backfired & popped a lot this weekend. When she eventually fired, she made a noise like the starter motor was not disengaging & now the starter motor won't work : just goes "click" when I hit the button.

Seems like I have popked the sprag clutch.

Also seems like fixing is an issue.

Can anyone offer any advice (pref. step by step instructions !) or refer me to a good guide ?

[crm114]

Club Bevel Heaven :: View topic - DARMAH SPRAG BEARING

have a look around on the forum for further info

[Aicorner]

Thanks

[jc_ducati]

A click from the button indicates the solenoid is not triggering the starter motor. If the sprag was faulty the starter would still spin but not engage the motor, a very distinctive sound. Check the connections to the solenoid, the solenoid itself and the brushes in the starter motor. A very flat battery will also give a click. Darmah's require very strong batteries, so you may also need to check the charging system if you experience ongoing weak starting.

[Duccout]

Luckilly, I've never had to touch my sprag, but if I have to, how do I get the locking plate out of the back of the flywheel? it is punched into place and how is it fixed back in afterwards? Is it necessary to buy a new plate and punch it in again?

[MHR1000Mille]

I've ever had any issues with my sprags either , a good battery is the go and make sure you have a better earth than what is supplied with the bike.

If you sprag is buggered why would you bother with modding anything when you can get them for US$157 from BH

Bevel Heaven - Detail

Cheers Marty



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[Aicorner]

Thanks for the help & references.

Turns out it was both the sprag & the starter motor. I assume the sprag went & this caused the engine to overrun the starter, which dropped a bush or something & destroyed the armature.

Anyone know where to source new starter motors ?! (I have fortunately found a second hand one)