very stiff clutch when warm

[greenbraes]

Need some ideas from the clutch specialists.
Got the bike out today on the road (OK just 1 mile) first time in 18 years. I have the engine running sweet but the clutch is very stiff, I have put a new cable on, OEM, but there is no change (routed properly too). Once the bike got warm on the road the clutch was almost impossible to operate.
Cluthcless gear change was OK but selecting neutral is not so easy (but I do have rear sets on the bike), when you pull the lever it doesn't feel smooth either, sort of gritty feeling if that makes sence. Everything down to the lever on the top of the clutch housing is good.
I have no idea what is in the clutch, heavy springs..etc but have got a new set of normal ones here..I am going to drop the oil and filter so little problem opening her up.
Any ideas for what to look out for when the clutch is opened up very much appreciated

[Guest]

A little information on the bike would be helpful?

[cowboyup3371]

First, what bike are you referring to? (Please put this in your signature - User CP, Edit Signature - so we don't have to ask and you don't have to remember to tell us)

Second, do you have the service manual for it and did you follow the clutch adjustment procedures in it?

[greenbraes]

Opps..sorry...it is a 1979 GS1000E...

[rustybronco]

Is the clutch lever hard to pull, or is it a problem with disengagement that is the concern?

A lever that's hard to pull is a mechanical issue. Disengagement-difficult to find neutral can be oil related or mechanical.

[greenbraes]

once the clutch is pulled in it is disengaged, there is not a lot of play on the rear sets so it is a bit of a fiddle to get neutral, you end up jumping between 1st and 2nd looking for it (maybe me just getting used to this bike). The lever and cable are smooth and free down to the clutch housing..just checked now the bike has cooled some what and it is easier to pull...still very heavy and not so smooth

[rustybronco]

The not so smooth part could be from a warn clutch basket. The heaviness change with engine temp I cannot figure out.

Change the oil and if there's no noticeable difference in finding neutral then pull apart the clutch to inspect and measure everything-especially the basket fingers and plates for warpage.

[jbthomp]

You're probably going to have to get in there and see what is worn/binding. If the cable is not binding it would have to be something with the clutch itself.

[greenbraes]

I think I will pull it apart, I have new friction plates and springs here and it is back up on the ramp now for its oil and filter change anyway. Best look now or I will end up getting volenteered for work in the garden...
Thanks for the help guys

[Guest]

eighteen years?
Your clutch pack may stuck together and possible notched hub.
But honestly that would not affect clutch pull that much. Maybe the bearing in your actuator in the clutch cover is seized?

[rustybronco]

I think I will pull it apart, I have new friction plates and springs here...

When you do have a look, compare the new spring pressure to the pressure of the springs already in the clutch assembly.

Check the plates for warpage as well.

[greenbraes]

I will take some photo's if there is anything to see...the oil is draining now so will get the manual out and have a look at the clutch after tea...can't miss a meal

[chuck hahn]

I like Chefs idea of the actuator shaft bearing..and as it gets hotter and expands the metal the grip gets even tighter..thus the harder pulling.

[tkent02]

when you pull the lever it doesn't feel smooth either, sort of gritty feeling if that makes sence.

This part sounds like the lever or perch is shot, the bearing in the cable end wasn't greased or isn't turning smoothly in the lever, the cable adjuster at the lever isn't in the right place, digging into the cable, or the cable is being cut by something in there.

Must be something to do with the lever/perch area, you can't usually feel grittiness at the far end of the cable.

[greenbraes]

well everything looks fine, the release arm feels smooth when it is rotated but it might bind when hot...might be worth replacing the bearing just incase...how do you get the arm out...might as well ask when I'm here.....I am away to source a 32mm socket now to get in a bit deeper..if I can't find it should I just go for the rebuild or perceiver and get right in for a good look??

again thanks for the help