When I press the starter button, the engine cranks for a few seconds then makes a metallic "rattling" sound and stops
It will do this repeatedly until the bike either starts or the battery drains and I have to jumpstart it
I am thinking it may be the starter motor which, according to my manual, meshes with the idle gear which, in turn, meshes with the starter clutch
If one of these gears is worn, might it make a rattling type sound?
Which gear is most likely to go?
A friend advises me the gear on the starter motor is the first one to check
Any other suggestions?

 

which bike do you have dave? I must be getting old. lol

 

Oops!
'81 KZ 750 LTD

 

Check battery voltage, ground, connections. Can be a bad solenoid or a tired starter, too. Depends on the sound; if it's a loud, metallic grinding, it may be the starter gear. If an electrical "click-click-click" it's a solenoid. Shouldn't be too difficult to get at on a KZ, tho.

 

Could be the starter seizing while over amping. Sometimes the voltage drop on a relay sounds like a metal grinding chatter and will also cause over amping. Not sure what to say right now except for good luck in your troubleshooting.

 

Thanks!
The starter motor looks fine
A few folks have mentioned the starter clutch
Unfortunately, according to my Clymer Manual, to get to the starter clutch, I've got to remove exhaust system, oil pan, clutch assembly, oil pump and secondary shaft
There has got to be a better way!

 

 

As you can see, most of what you mentioned can stay on the bike in reference to your suggested checks. Good luck.

 

Thank you!!