Topic: Clutch has no return spring and starter engages whn clutch lever is pulled in

[Dirtman666]

Ok I have searched the for this problem and see it clutch safety switch problem plus a clutch problem.

Bike is a 1976 CB550 - engine runs good - starter switch is broke I am able to use the electric start by connecting middle connection on the left side of bike - once it starts I pill this connector off.  - Maybe this is part of my problem.
Anyway when in disengage the clutch (pull the lever in)  the starter engages - Or wait my start switch is stuck in the on position so when I pull in the Clutch lever the start engages - Someone confirm this for me - I will disconnect the starter solenoid wire and use the kick start as a test.  I may have fixed this problem.


Problem #2

Clutch has no return spring - -Clutch lever needs to be pushed out - I have not put the bike in gear yet with engine running do to problem with starter.  Bike has not been run in a number of years.  Could I have clutch plates sticking??

I changed the oil after I let the engine warm up.   Should I try engaging the clutch if I fix the above problem??

Thanks for any ideas and any experience you have had with these bikes.

Jay

[bryanj]

Starter has a "safety" circuit and will only engage if either the neutral light is on OR the clutch lever pulled in, I strongly advise you fix the starter button as if the neutral light comes on the starter will be permanently running

Clutch return springs are part of the clutch so it sounds like you cable is rusty and needs replacement

[KB02]

yeah, I agree. Complete disconnect your starter switch until you are able to either fix it or replace it and use the kick start.

And like Bryan said, sounds like time for a new clutch cable.

[Dirtman666]

Ok I removed the Yellow/red wire from the connector block no more starter problem - I have a 75 CB550 that also is Kick start only
Ok by me as I am a dirtbiker by trade (joking)

Clutch cable is good move freely.

I have removed the side cover and torn clutch down cleaned and put back together -fibers are within specs.

Looks like the pushrod to dieengage the clutch is to short - Anyone seen this proble before??

Best solution???

Thanks

[bryanj]

Nope rod dont wear, have you adjusted it on the locknut as per book?

[Dirtman666]

Yes  -  Bryan you are the Winner!!       Thanks


Cleaned everything and started messing with the clutch adustment on the side cover - That gave me enough adjustment to get it working.

Ok so I did not have to pull the side cover - But I was able to get all 10 screws out with an Impact (hammer type) without stripping any.

Clutch steels needed to be cleaned plates were good.  Inside of engine look clean.

I just bought 2 CB550's this week - 1975 33k miles & 1976 20k miles both are now running and ridable after a long sit.

Need fork seals and other gerneral maintenance but I am happy with both running at this point.

Very happy to have found this web site - I was able to download the service manual - printed out the pages needed for clutch service and the parts fiche are also very useful.

RIDE ON!!!!

[bryanj]

CAREFUL WITH THE ADJUSTMENT, the book sez that if you look at the operating arm there is a mark which should line up with a mark on the casing with no cable attached. IF YOU MOVE THE ADJUSTER SCREW TOO FAR THE INTERNAL MECHANISM WILL FALL OFF. Sorry for the caps but its an important point!