I've had this problem the last couple times I tried to start my Scrambler when it's cold. I hit the key and the starter will just spin but not engage. Then I try to pull the rope and it will not pull. If I take off the belt cover I can turn the primary clutch backwards a little bit and then it frees up. I can then pull the rope and it starts right up, but the starter still just spins without engaging. However, once it is warmed up I can shut it off and the starter will work just fine.

This first happened the other day when I went to take it out to put on my new tire chains, then it happened again today when I went to plow the driveway. Both times it was about 15-20 degrees out. First time it happened I about crapped my pants because it seemed like the motor was seized up.

So...anyone have any ideas what might be causing this?

 

Just a thought. Maybe some moisture under the flywheel/recoil cover freezing up everything? I'd pull it and inspect. Or may just need a little grease at the starter bendex.

 

yep sounds like water got in and it freezes up.

 

What weight oil are you using. Might need to use a lower weight oil in the cold months. Also does sound like water / moisture might be a problem too....

 

I'm using Amsoil 0w40.

I was also kind of thinking that there must be water somewhere it's not supposed to be and freezing up. I brought it to work with me today so I can bring it in the shop where it's warm and thaw out, and I'll pull the recoil off and see what's in there.

 

They get water from the handle not being put all the way on after using, look at the seal under the handle see if it fits tight on recoil housing

 

This is a common problem with a Polaris in cold weather.

Remove the cover and dry everything out.

 

Thanks for the help guys. I took the recoil off and sure enough there was some ice in there. Used a heat gun to thaw and dry everything up and so far it seems to be working great. Sometime over the summer I must have gone through some water and not had the handle pushed on all the way so water got in there.

Now on to my next problem....I hit a curb and bent the crap out of my plow frame. If it's not one thing it's another...lol.

 

Condensation builds up in there and it will get wet no matter if you ever go though water or not.

 

Your bendex might also be going out. If it does it in the summer check the starter bendex.