Can't get clutch cable adjusted properly...

[marek]

I've been messing with the clutch cable for some time trying to adjust it properly.

I followed the instructions in my repair manual but all that gives me is a lever with the right amount of play but it's still very hard to pull all the way in.

I messed with the adjuster by the lever, the one on top of the left side engine cover and the screw with the locknut under the clutch release cover.

I finally thought I had it set right, it was easy to pull in and the bike started with the lever pulled in but when I shifted into 1st, the bike luched forward and died, so the clutch wasn't disengaging even though I had the lever pulled in.

I can adjust it so that the clutch disengages but then it's still too hard to pull in all the way (although not as bad), this makes for a dangerous situation if I can't disengage the clutch easily, especially since I am a new rider.

I did lube up the cable and made sure it went the right path, any ideas?

[Killer2600]

I've been messing with the clutch cable for some time trying to adjust it properly.

I followed the instructions in my repair manual but all that gives me is a lever with the right amount of play but it's still very hard to pull all the way in.

I messed with the adjuster by the lever, the one on top of the left side engine cover and the screw with the locknut under the clutch release cover.

I finally thought I had it set right, it was easy to pull in and the bike started with the lever pulled in but when I shifted into 1st, the bike luched forward and died, so the clutch wasn't disengaging even though I had the lever pulled in.

I can adjust it so that the clutch disengages but then it's still too hard to pull in all the way (although not as bad), this makes for a dangerous situation if I can't disengage the clutch easily, especially since I am a new rider.

I did lube up the cable and made sure it went the right path, any ideas?

If you don't feel any drag at the lever after disconnecting the clutch end of the cable then adjust the free play as stated in the manual and unless you need two hands to pull in the clutch I'd say your good. The clutch lever is not something that is easy to pull in, not many people can pull it in with just their pinky or index finger. From your post I gather your new to bikes and your hand hasn't adapted to working the clutch, if you practice riding in a small where you have to clutch in and out alot you'll find that your hand can get tired pretty quick.

[Steve]

Something else you can try: remove the cable from the clutch linkage, leave it attached to the lever. Put some mild tension on the end where the clutch normally pulls, and squeeze the lever. There should be almost no resistance. If it does not glide smoothly, you need a new cable. Lubing might help a bit, but there is a nylon sleeve inside the cable. If it wears through, the cable is pulling in a groove against the outer case, making it harder to pull.

A new cable is rather inexpensive, and it's better to change it now, before it strands you on the side of the road somewhere.


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[marek]

Well I agree that I'm not used to working a hand clutch, currently, it's not THAT hard to pull in with one hand, just wasn't sure how easy it's supposed to be.

Thanks Guys.

[arveejay]

If the cable was replaced with non oem, it's probably an inferior cable.

[TireSmoke]

Part of the problem could be in the lever itself. Disconnect the lever from the cable & remove the pivot bolt & lever & clean thoroughly. There is a brass bushing in the lever where the pivot goes through. That bushing is probably worn on one side. If so, replace. Lube the bushing, pivot & reassemble. Along with a new cable should make clutch pull easier & have a more "positive" feel.

Paul

[twistedwankel]

I've been messing with the clutch cable for some time trying to adjust it properly.
I did lube up the cable and made sure it went the right path, any ideas?

My '81 used to be somewhat a drag to the point that under speed shifting situations it would actually delay the clutch re-engagement. I took the whole hand assy. off the bike to get a straight downhill drip for a few drops (like 6) of engine oil like the manual shows for periodic maintenance. (I read the manual as a last resort:shock

Now it works really really easy and has stayed that way for a couple months now. Perhaps the "lube" you used is too sticky?

[salty_monk]

brass bushes are meant to be run dry.....

If it has pattern springs fitted then the clutch will be a lot heavier than stock. Do a test on the cable & see what happens.

You can change back to stock springs as long as the plates etc are in good condition.

I'm no Schwarzenegger (I have a licence ) & I manage with aftermarket springs, tempted to put 3 out of 6 stock ones back in though because it is a little heavy.

Dan