Grind me a pound

[asshat]

So after about 5 hrs of flogging the girl in some amazing wet conditions in Maine this last weekend, she decided to not want to engage consistently whilst kick starting. So (A)how hard is it to change the ratchet assembly? (B)
How pricey is it? (C) I noticed while searching I am not the only one with low hrs and a poorly functioning ratchet, Whats up with this? And is there any way to improve it, or do I just put them in, eat them up and put them in again? oh and (D) what parts will I need to order gaskets, seals, springs, bushings etc etc to do this job?

Kind of bummed a bike with less than 30 hrs on her which starts in 1 to 2 kicks needs this. But other than this she kicked arse.

Thanks for any help
Nice Informative bunch of guys you have been.

I am asshat.

 

[2 strokes 4 life]

Must be a thing on the newer bikes. My 2002 has alot of kicks on it and still no problem. Sorry i am of no more help.

 

[asshat]

Nope it the same as yours. 2002 xc 250.

 

[2 strokes 4 life]

Thats blows. I might have to watch out for that.

 

[asshat]

Yep, Do a search and read them. It is by far not uncommon.
Keep the bolt snug on the shaft. Mine fell out, could be what started the failure, but I really don't see how. The lever is external. The ratchet is internal.
I am asshat

 

[gasser]

My 07ec250 had this problem with about 15 hours or less on the motor. The problem was a too weak spring that pushes the two engagement gears together. I substituted the spring from my 01xc300 and haven't had a problem since (the 01 spring is noticeably stiffer). Apparently very small bits of metal on the shaft cause enough drag on the engagement gear so that it will skip instead of pushing fully together. Anyone having this problem may get by for another ride or two if they change their gearbox oil but the spring must be dealt with before the engagement gears lose their sharp teeth. Removing the spring and stretching it to increase it's stiffness may do the trick, anyway it's worth a try to save your gears which cost 60-70 bucks.