starter problem?

[iridenow]

This has happened 5-6 times over the last 3 months or so... When I push the button to start the bike, I get a loud sound like 2 pieces of metal being slammed together. When it happens, I will turn off the bike for a minute or two. Then try again and it starts right up. Is there something I need fixed before I get stuck on the side of the road?

[SportsterDoc]

1. What is age of battery?
2. What is battery voltage:
a. key off?
b. key on?
c. while attempting to start?
3. What is condition of BOTH ends of BOTH battery cables?

If the answer to 3 is "looks good", when was the last time they were removed, cleaned and reinstalled?

4. What is condition battery cables between ends? (feel for damage, corrosion)

[Little Blue]

This could be a starter motor problem, a battery and or something else. Going to need additional information to help you out. ........

[iridenow]

what's the going rate for a battery?

Since you guys are asking battery questions.... I have had a few instances this week where it has been really slow to start up.

[BLUEKNIGHT911]

what's the going rate for a battery?

Since you guys are asking battery questions.... I have had a few instances this week where it has been really slow to start up.

Well I think you should read post #2, and give us more info ......Mike

[iridenow]

Well I think you should read post #2, and give us more info ......Mike

You need to read my signature

[ARtraveler]

I am noting that you have a 2010 RT. If that has the original battery, it may be time for a change. If its battery, you have been getting warnings. Many times, an older battery will crash without any warnings. And most times, Murphy's Law kicks in.

The last battery I bought was about three years ago. I change them out at four years, regardles of good/bad or otherwise.

A dealer installed battery is around $125.

Not saying its battery, but one of the possibilities for sure.

[Little Blue]

Batteries are good for about 4 or 5 years in AZ. Do you know how old your battery is? Are you able to get the battery load tested? If you need help, l would check with your local Spyder dealer.

Good Luck on Your Mission........

[safecracker]

Mine has done it also. My 1,000 Ski Doo Legend would do it too. As you all know the 998 has an automatic decompression system. Sometimes when you turn off motor, the mechanism that controls the decompression is out sync. Remember the starter uses a spraque clutch. I think that is what bangs/clanks. When it happens to me i just hit the starter button again. It always starts right up. This is my theory, yours may very. Bruce

[SportsterDoc]

Good thought about compression release possibly being a problem, however an overrunning clutch should be silent engagement.

https://www.gmnbt.com/how-sprag-clutches-work/

[IGETAROUND]

This has happened 5-6 times over the last 3 months or so... When I push the button to start the bike, I get a loud sound like 2 pieces of metal being slammed together. When it happens, I will turn off the bike for a minute or two. Then try again and it starts right up. Is there something I need fixed before I get stuck on the side of the road?

FWIW had the Sprague clutch go out on my 2014 RS @ 52K

[SportsterDoc]

Well I think you should read post #2, and give us more info ......Mike

Thanks, Mike
If the battery cables are good, with good connections, then question 2c provides an in the field load test.
2a. AGM battery should be close to 12.8 with key off.
2b. Key on with headlight load will drop to 12.5 rather quickly
2c. If 10.5 vdc or greater while cranking, not likely a battery issue.

It may be a battery issue, especially if older than ~3 years, but would not want to recommend replacement without voltage readings AND a thorough check of BOTH ends of BOTH battery cables.
The frame end of the negative is oft neglected.

[Eckhard]

As you all know the 998 has an automatic decompression system.

Please tell me more????

[Snowbelt Spyder]

It would make perfect sense for the Ski Doo to have a decompression system on that engine. No evidence of one on the engine used on the Spyder that I could find.

[safecracker]

On my snowmobile changing out the spraque clutch is a pain in the but. I know of one shop that was welding the clurch together. I personally am not a fan of those types of clutches. I have replaced 3 of those units.