Topic: 1981 cb650 custom

[skydaddy2010]

Hopefully I can find a little help here. Just picked up a 1981 cb650 custom for pretty cheap.  Starts right up but needs a "clutch adjustment" probably should have considered that fact a little more when buying. Basically it was like the clutch cable was too long by about an inch. Figured easy fix.  New cable and new clutch cover because I crackled the mounting bracket while making adjustments.  Now I can barely get the right tension on the cable.  When I do, I squeeze the clutch and try to start it in first.  Lurches forward.  Thought maybe I just needed to put a little oil through it so I put it on the center stand and started it up. Shifts fine through all gears but not while using the clutch. I'd hate to bite the bullet and pay someone to fix it. I mean what's the point of a project of you can't figure it out yourself.  But I'm wondering if anyone can point me in the right direction.

[JimJamerino]

I'd check the clutch free play to start with.  Once you have the cable the right tension, then you can adjust the clutch tension itself with a screwdriver and socket.  Also, even with a new cable, make sure the cable is well lubed.

http://cosky0.tripod.com/

Page 3-16/17 shows how.

[skydaddy2010]

After making the adjustments noted in the shop manual with no success, ended up having a Skype session with my uncle who had one of these new. We discovered that the clutch pressure plate was bad which is why it didn't respond to any adjustments.  New clutch and is up and running right.  At least it will after the carbs are synced