Topic: Kickstart Won't Engage

[zwish]

I'm working on a '74 CB450 and the kickstart will not turn the engine over.  There is no resistance when you kick it.  I realize this is a Dual Overhead Cam bike, but I figured the kickstart mechanism is similar.  The electric start does try to turn the engine over, but it is very weak even with a full battery.  There must be some corrosion in the circuit. 

Any tips of where to start with the kickstarter?  I've tried rolling the bike forwards and back to see if that would have any effect and sadly, it does not.  Thanks very much.

[Obsidus]

Have you pulled the starter cover off?

[zwish]

Not yet, no.

[Obsidus]

Then how do you know you have bad circuit?

[phil71]

you said you "tried" to roll the bike..  but you don't say if it was successful. Is the engine free? If it is, and the bike's been sitting forever.. the clutch could be sticking.. and that would make the kicker not work right. Also.. you're not pulling the clutch when you kick it, are you?