Another starting problem, but not the battery...

[Sweaty Sock]

First reasonable trip of the year from Mid-Wales to Bristol on Friday went without a hitch. Had worried that the battery was a bit old so had ordered one, but it hadn't arrived before I left.
The bike, 18yr old 1150 GS, refused to start on Saturday- guessed flat battery, tried jump start, no joy, reluctantly called recovery man (very helpful bloke from SOS Bike Rescue), again tried jump without success- he diagnosed started motor u/s so had to come home in the van.

Today I read the recent threads about similar problems, so took out the starter motor, a very crunchy Valeo unit, dismantled it hoping the carbon brushes had gone awol, but they were fine, further dismantling shows that two of the four magnets have become unstuck from the inside of the housing and were jamming the rotor.

I will post some post-mortem photos once my grief has settled...

 

[Sweaty Sock]

Unable to post photos due to further technical frustrations

Managed to get the armature out, three of four magnets loose, one in broken, armature heavily gouged and scored.

Even worse, no drink in the house! Are the American ones from Euromotoelectrics any better- come in at nearly $200 including shipping and tax?

 

[MarkShelley]

This problem is well documented on here. Later versions have clips retaining the magnets.

 

[Sweaty Sock]

This problem is well documented on here. Later versions have clips retaining the magnets.

Thanks Mark. I have seen a few of the many threads now, including some articles from the US too. I suppose it has lasted well, considering.