Okay, I had another thread going with multiple problems, but since then, I have fixed a few of the problems so I figured I would start a new thread on what I have going on now.

My machine:
2006 Sportsman 500 H.O.

Basically, I can not get my quad to start with the key. I turn the key, and I just get a single clicking noise from the magnetic switch (solenoid). It is just a single loud click. I know the solenoid is good because it is new. Now, I would guess my battery is good, but I am not sure. I tried getting it tested at a local auto zone, but they could not test it. I was told I could hook my multimeter to it, and crank the starter and see what voltage it is putting out..... but I can not do that because my starter will not crank.

Could I test my battery by checking voltage while operating the winch since it draws a pretty big amount of electricity and tell if my battery is bad?

What is the best way to test the starter directly without tearing it down? Could my local auto zone test the starter? Is there a way I can directly test the starter myself?

Thanks for any help.

 

if your battery is charged up then w/ the key on jump the 2 big cables on the solenoid(even though you replaced it will double check it and tell you for sure) and see if the starter even turns. if not then most likely the starter is the issue. if you put your bike inthe dainostic mode then you can check the battery voltage w/ out a meter buy seeing what it reads onthe speedo. check your owners manual to see what to do.

 

Okay, I will jump the solenoid posts tonight.

Could I check the battery for voltage drop by running the winch in or out? How much voltage drop is acceptable while running the winch?

Has anybody taken a defective starter to an auto place to be tested, Or does andbody just "hotwire" it? I just want to be 100% before I replace it. Also, anybody on here rebuild one, and is it even worth it?

Thanks again.

 

I spend quite a bit of time on my 2001 500 HO in the mud and water. I ended up buying a spare starter because of water infultration. I change it in the spring of every year because it is seized up. I take the old one off and have it rebuilt. The price is right and I always have a spare. This year I also had to take apart my ASM Gear shaft which is the clutch that the starter ingages. The starter is no easy chore to replace. I take the cover off my pull cord recoil. Take the ASM Gear out which is easy. Then I turn the key and see if my starter rolls over. You can try turning it by hand or with pliers to see if it is seized.
Good luck. I havn't had much with my starters. The rest of the bike seems to work well.

 

I have tested the starters on autos and artic cats by jumping them off a battery direct and it has always worked. Using jumper cables or two wires just do the ground to ground and touch the the positive to the solenoid connection on the starter and see if it works.