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Thread: Clutch basket inspection

  1. #1
    Senior Member wally's Avatar
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    Clutch basket inspection

    Hi guys, I need some general advice before I get into this.

    My clutch area is making a pretty decent noise when the lever isn't pulled in.
    It is very noticeable when engaging and disengaging the clutch.

    Now for the questions:
    1. What is involved with inspecting the clutch basket?
    2. What are measurables and key things to look out for?
    3. Any other advice?

    I readjusted the clutch cable over the weekend.

    I took a video a while ago, but you can't really pic it up too well on the clip.

    I want to tackle it in our winter season when I replace the rocker gaskets as well.

    Thanx guys!

  2. #2
    Senior Member Chicknstripn's Avatar
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    Check your primary chain tension and fluid level before you go any further

  3. #3
    Senior Member wally's Avatar
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    Thanx Chickn! Primary is fine - will check fluids over the weekend and report back.

  4. #4
    Senior Member squidbuellie's Avatar
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    Some things to look at first...
    Did you adjust the clutch basket or just the clutch cable?
    With the inspection cover off look at the lip on the inside of the primary cover.
    What does the primary fuild smell like and is there any water in it.
    Check primary chain tension.

    If all of that checks out... Get ready to pull the cover.
    After removing the clutch ramp and before removing the primary cover look inside the clutch basket to see if the snap ring is still seated or the lip that hold holds the it is still intact.
    If that checks out then drain the oil and remove the primary.

    With the primary off check the primary chain tensioner shoe depending on the year it's black or blue.
    Depending on the miles on your bike and the condition of the shoe you can decide to replace it or not...

    Now the clutch is cut and dry... If it does not slip and there is no clear damage.. Run it....

    If it has a broken spring on the back side of the clutch basket or broken ramp replace it...

    If the clutch is bad just buy a used one from someone... Don't bother buying new.

  5. #5
    Senior Member wally's Avatar
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    I adjusted the clutch at the case/basket and in the front at motor mount.

    I noticed some milky whiteness when I pulled the clutch adjustment cover off.
    Oil was changed end August and has done less than 2 000km on it.

    Clutch isn't slipping, shifting i sometimes clunking - as Buells are.

    I will check through the list - thanx!

  6. #6
    Senior Member wally's Avatar
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    Sorry, it has been a bit hectic.

    I actually took this video 2 weeks ago already, but only got around to uploading it now.


    And off course the video went on sideways in stead of portrait wise.

    Sorry!

    Check oil level, topped it up a bit, bu the noise is pretty much still there...

  7. #7
    Senior Member Cooter's Avatar
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    So, the noise goes away when you pull in (dis-engage) the clutch? Does the noise sound like marbles in a wooden cup? The basket itself could be loose on the trans input shaft its a tapered shaft with a keyway so there shouldn't be any slop at all. Once the primary cover is off, see if the whole basket can be moved around (wobbly) and take it off completely to check the trans input shaft for damage.
    A tiny bit of milkiness can be ok (due to condensation) especially on bikes that don't get ridden a lot, but if it's a foamy milkshake, you'll have to find out where theres water intrusion.
    Personally I adjust my primary chain tension with it warm and idling. Loosen until then noise gets louder (not more than 2 turns), then tighten. The noise should get quieter, then louder again. When It does, loosen 1/2 turn and lock it down. It is way better to be slightly loose than too tight at all.YMMV.

  8. #8
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    wally: as cooter mentioned you're going to eventually have to remove the primary cover and inspect what's going on inside there. a pretty easy task. carefully inspect the large outer engagement ears of the clutch pack friction driven plates for wear and large grooves in same. sure sounds like they're bad and rattling around inside the basket.

  9. #9
    Senior Member Chicknstripn's Avatar
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    Wally, if you need the clutch tool, for compressing the diaphram spring, I'll mail you mine as a loner.
    LMK
    WOW! just noticed you're in South Africa!
    Might be cheaper for you to just buy one!
    I got mine off amazon for about $35bucks.

  10. #10
    Senior Member Cooter's Avatar
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    Or get some aluminum bar stock and make one. Them South Africans are handy



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