Oh no what did I find

[suzukigs1100ez]

So on my 82 1100e. I changing the oil pan gasket tonight and check it for anything that could be laying in the pan. Well I found what looks like a piece of spring. Now I haven't any issues with the bike other than some gaskets leaking. I attached a photo of said piece.

 

[Rob S.]

That sucks. The tiniest of things can ruin your day.

I can't offer any help, but as a fellow "EZ" rider, you have my wishes for the best outcome.

 

[Nessism]

Clutch hub spring maybe. GS clutch hubs are a weak point and the 1100E most of all because it's the most powerful.

 

[suzukigs1100ez]

Would it be possible to see with just the cover off or should I tear down the clutch?

The side of the piece is machined flat

 

[GregT]

Would it be possible to see with just the cover off or should I tear down the clutch?

The side of the piece is machined flat

I agree with Nessism, probably clutch cush spring. To see where it came from and how the others are, it is a clutch out job. The cush springs are on the back of the primary gear and clutch basket.
Keep your fingers crossed that it's a remmnant of a previous clutch job and what's in there now is a replacement.

 

[bonanzadave]

To see where it came from and how the others are, it is a clutch out job.

and its not that tough a job....

http://gsarchive.bwringer.com/storagecliff/images/clutch_odds-n-ends.html

 

[bobgroger]

A monster impact driver is going to be your friend to get the big nut off, although they are usually loose....

 

[Guest]

I agree, looks like clutch bits

 

[blowerbike]

part of the basket spring...lucky it didn't break a pump gear.

 

[TxGSrider]

My only thought was "I wonder where the rest of that spring is"?

 

[suzukigs1100ez]

Well found the problem spring now the basket looks perfect no groves. But 3 out six are loose and one broken. So what's the fix?

 

[suzukigs1100ez]

Also the spacer behind the springs on the face clutch all have groves from the springs is that something worry about?

 

[GregT]

That's been fixed before. The rivets have been ground off and the springs possibly replaced at some time. Then the backplate has been welded to the rivets.
Pretty standard fix. I'd think it's possible to do it again. I don't know who still does it in the US, I'm sure someone will tell you.

The spring spacers are sacrificial and take a pounding when the cush springs go away. Don't know if they're available - I've always made up replacements myself.
They can be reused - just make sure the ends are square - the pic you posted, that one needs trimming.

 

[blowerbike]

you can get the spring spacers new or used...orient or one of those company's used to offer stainless replacements.
John Pearson can install an HD backing plate kit on your basket...he's located in west Alexandria ohio and rebuilds cranks and baskets for many people.