Hitchcocks Forum

hi first time I been on here I got a 08 electra x s it starts first kick when first start but when I use the elc starter it makes a noise like its not engaging it will start after a lot of button pushing some times the starter will engage but sounds like its not firing when I do get going if I stop and try to start it is a job to start whith the kickstart or elc start I have put a hitchcocks tci unit on new battery spark plug and cap help any surgestions

Here we go again

Indeed, Norm!



Phil - it sounds like the starter sprag clutch (a freewheel device) has failed. Very typical on Bullets from that era. Later ones have a stronger sprag clutch.

Sorry mate...


Learn to kick it!.


You can of course replace the sprag clutch, but they generally fail. Best option is not to use the leccy start, and to remove the remains of the sprag soon, before it breaks up and causes damage inside.

Those sprag clutches are just not fit for purpose. You are better off without it unless you really can't manage without an electric boot. There are two kinds of electric start Enfield's, those where the spray has failed and those that are going to.

Regrettably the weakness of the sprag clutch is the commonest source of aggravation on this model, removal of the offending item and just using the K/S, as outlined above is a permanent solution, rider health permitting. The big end has also been known to fail prematurely on this model due to occasional poor hardening of the crankpins, and the the cam follower stems are more fragile than the classic Bullet. Fixes are available for these woes, which, once sorted, actually result in quite a decent machine.



A.

Adrian, still the Edsel of Enfield land lol

Hey, Adrian, could you outline the fix for the more fragile cam followers? I've had one fail, and I didn't realise there was a fix - the dealer just installed a new one.

Thack I fitted Bullet ones in mine but that is a difficult job and not something I would expect anybody else to attempt

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.... not again As others have said, remove your sprag clutch before it breaks up (which it IS doing - trust us) and use the foot. You do have an option of replacing the sprag with an original part (not worth the bother - it will just break too becuase the issue actually lies elsewhere - ignition timing) OR you could replace the sprag with abeefier one AND put into place the timing TCI alteration recommended by Hitchcocks. Search for Electra X sprag clutch and it will reveal all Sorry