Hi everyone I’m back,

I’m so close to getting this to run properly. Just a few days ago when trying to start the bike the kickstart did not want to return all the way. I took off the side panel to take a look on what’s wrong but I can’t see any obvious problem so far. Just in case, does anyone know a YouTube video or or a photo guide on how I can fix the kickstart. Anything will help.

thank you everyone in advance!

I have same bike, mine is kinda limp too, but does goes up all the way (albeit without a snap) so I haven't dug into it instead preferring less preload on old spring vs. stiff shaft, but my instinct is that if your shaft stays limp you likely need one more turn of preload

Is it possible the stop hasn't been fitted in line with the dot on the spline [if its this type & i'm wildly guessing]. The dot would determine spring preload.
www.partzilla.com/catalog/yamaha/motorcycle/1978/dt400e/starter

Just age that causes this? Never had mine apart (rt2) and it started that last fall..
Sneezles61

hmm...a dot?  now I am going to take a closer look at mine

Small dot in fact lol, make sure the shaft isn't bent as this will also stop it returning, slacken the case screws with the bike lent over to stop any oil leak and see if it gets any better.

Mauser is probably correct on the case screws my CT1C did the same thing but I was using a aftermarket gasket so I changed to genuine Yamaha because it was thicker and solved my problem 

I'm guessing by looking at pics--but-- if the two dots are aligned & spring is a bit weak i'm thinking you would getaway with moving it one spline towards more tension or possibly two. No way could you wind it up half a turn without coil binding when kicking. Guessing, as i said.