Hi everyone,
This is my first post here, so first of all – greetings to all TR1 enthusiasts!
I'm currently working on my bike and came across a worn-out gear (5A8-15517-00) – here's a photo of the part.

After reading through the forum, I understand that a good replacement option is the complete gear set 3LP-W1551-00-00. I found it available here:
https://www.motorcyclespareparts.eu/en/yamaha-parts/3lpw15510000
Before I go ahead with the purchase (which isn't exactly cheap), I’d really appreciate it if someone could confirm if this is indeed the recommended upgrade or if there are any better/cheaper alternatives.
Thanks in advance for your help and advice!

Best regards,
Kris

I haven't consider used gear before since this is such a vulnerable piece. Also I'm aware that used original can be often "better than new" replacement but is it in this case as well?

I've sent an inquiry on kleinanzeigen - let's see if the gear is available and how much $

Thank you Bruno, I wouldn't find this advert by myself.

Famous "it's not a bug it's a feature"

Do you guys have any, good or bad, experience with part 3LP-W1551-00-00? Just curious what the options are.

Hi Kris, hi all,

first of all, welcome to the forum.

Yes, indeed: The starter mechanisms of the early Yamaha XV and TR1 models are famous for their unique features. The starting process often comes along with all kinds of intimidating shredder sounds. Furthermore, each and every part of the starter mechanism is able and willing to break down sooner or later.

The early XV 750 and XV 920 models (1981-1984) have to be regarded as the most critical candidates. The TR1 mechanism was designed slightly better in those days. But now, after 40 years, both mechanisms have often reached their durability limits.

Yamaha soon got aware of those issues, so they modified the following models (XV 1100 Virago, model code 3LP) and fitted an improved starter mechanism. Yes, you can replace the "older" TR1 parts (code number 5A8) by the later parts (code number 3LP). But you will have to swap the whole starter gear set, as several components have been modified in a corresponding way.

The modification is illustrated in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIkZDTDZs7E.

Looking for second hand components may be more successful if you focused on the later 3LP parts for the XV 1100 Virago models. They are a bit younger and may therefore be available slightly better.

Good luck - and have a lot of fun when removing the left engine cover: Discover the dark secrets behind it and experience the fascinating initiation ritual that all of us had to pass already...

Best regards,

Roland