Topic: Clutch slipping? What to do? 1982 CB650SC Nighthawk ("Bikey")

[leekellerking]

So now that I've replaced the charging system, one piece at a time, it's time to move on to the next issue.

Bikey seems to be developing a slipping clutch.  Symptoms are:

 * Tach needle swings at Houston Freeway speeds (65 mph plus);
 * RPM at 80 mph varies (some days 5,000 and some days -- like today -- 6,000 to 6,500 rpm)
 * Seems to slip a bit at full throttle accel in higher gears.

Bikey has nearly 30,000 miles, about 15,000 of which are since I got him in August 2008.  

Clutch has not been adjusted at the engine side since I got it because I haven't been able to get the darned cover off.  

Do you think that might help?


So, if I do the rebuilt clutch thing, do I need to replace plates and springs?  

Where should I get the parts?  (Cycle Gear has the clutch plates from EBC for about $71 plus tax, or I can get them on Ebay for less).

Are the EBC replacement springs worth a damn (and how much will the clutch effort increase)?  

I got questions!!!  Help!

[Gordon]

Clutch has not been adjusted at the engine side since I got it because I haven't been able to get the darned cover off. 

I'd get the cover off and adjust the clutch to see if that fixes it before jumping in and replacing it. 

[scunny]

+1

[leekellerking]

But what if I do have to do it?  Should I replace both springs and plates? Or just plates?


Or do I just keep running it like it is until it won't break 65 mph?

Lee

Clutch has not been adjusted at the engine side since I got it because I haven't been able to get the darned cover off. 

I'd get the cover off and adjust the clutch to see if that fixes it before jumping in and replacing it. 

[Spanner 1]

I'd do the adjustment under the clutch cover and replace the clutch cable ( no matter what).....

[Patrick]

It is really unlikely you have to replace the clutch plates. The springs, perhaps. But like you already been told, you start with the adjustment. I also agree with Spanner - a new cable can make a big different. You clutch can be slow to grab if the cable is sticky and slow to return. I was ready to rebuild the clutch on one of my bikes until I changed the cable and it was perfect again. Judging from the fact that it has worked this well so long, the cable seems likely - especially with the Houston humidity.

Start with the easy, cheap stuff. Go for the harder more expensive stuff if the easy cheap stuff doesn't work.

Patrick

[kghost]

Like everyone else said....do the easy first.

If that doesn't cure your ill's.........

Your Question: DO I need plates, springs or both?

The Answer: You will not know until you take it apart.

The plates has a specific thickness and fiber on them.....if thier worn down...you'll need new ones.

There are metal plates in the clutch too....sometimes depending on wear you'll need new ones as well.

The springs have a rated tension. (don't remember what it is without the manual) If they do not provide the required pressure you'll need new ones.

You won't know what you need till you take it apart....but adjust all the easy stuff first.

[leekellerking]

I'd do the adjustment under the clutch cover and replace the clutch cable ( no matter what).....

That was my thought, too.  And as for the clutch cable, I just happen to have this $10 off coupon from Bikebandit burning a whole in my pocket!

Lee

[leekellerking]

Fancy-dancy clutch adjustment coverplate removal tool!