The specific sled in question is a 1995 Formula SL; however, the electric start is not unique to this model or year as many of you will know.
I installed a new key switch and new battery as part of refurbishing it. It normally starts and runs great. However, occasionally when the key is turned to start, it clicks rather than fully engages the starter. Cycle the key from stop to start 1 to 3 times and it engages normally and fires up.
The times I personally observed it, the machine had been run a while (i.e., was hot start). Being a 25-year old machine, I thought the starter or solenoid might be showing its age and being affected by the heat of a hot engine, so I replaced solenoid/starter with a new one. Electric start operated perfectly for 20 to 30 starts then the issue occurred again--click.
I am wondering if: a) this is not uncommon, and I should just tell riders just cycle the key a few times, B) perhaps the "new" key switch has a dead spot in it, or c) there is another explanation.
I bought this sled so I had something to loan to new riders to get them practiced. As such, having it be a reliable electric start (versus the beast of a pull start) is important.
Any insight would be appreciated.
I installed a new key switch and new battery as part of refurbishing it. It normally starts and runs great. However, occasionally when the key is turned to start, it clicks rather than fully engages the starter. Cycle the key from stop to start 1 to 3 times and it engages normally and fires up.
The times I personally observed it, the machine had been run a while (i.e., was hot start). Being a 25-year old machine, I thought the starter or solenoid might be showing its age and being affected by the heat of a hot engine, so I replaced solenoid/starter with a new one. Electric start operated perfectly for 20 to 30 starts then the issue occurred again--click.
I am wondering if: a) this is not uncommon, and I should just tell riders just cycle the key a few times, B) perhaps the "new" key switch has a dead spot in it, or c) there is another explanation.
I bought this sled so I had something to loan to new riders to get them practiced. As such, having it be a reliable electric start (versus the beast of a pull start) is important.
Any insight would be appreciated.