When I try to start the atv by using the switch, nothing happens. If I kick start, it starts. Turn it off and try the switch, it now works. I have no explanation. Any thoughts.

 

Could be that you have now put some power into a flat battery, but unlikely. Most probably the vibration of a running engine has shaken a bad connection into working again, or worn starter brushes have been shaken into connecting. Check with a 12v test lamp between starter live lead and earth. Ignition on, press start button. If solenoid clicks, and lamp lights but starter doesn't work, faulty starter, if solenoid clicks but lamp doesn't light, faulty solenoid. If solenoid doesn't click, fault on thin wires going to solenoid.

 

Thank you. This gives me a method to investigate the problem.

 

On this starter, rather than having a terminal that you can connect a lead to, there are 4 wires leading into the starter. This means you are unable to do a test.

 

Never seen a starter like that, what type of Yam ATV is it? Also put up a picture of that starter.

 

Sorry. Too much of a novice. The starter is normal. I tested the starter with a multimeter. I got no reading and no clicks so I am assuming there must be something in the wiring. The switch has always been loose and would move around the handle pushing the start button when starting so it is possible a problem there. I will have to test the conductivity. Thanks for getting me on the right track