clutch

[Red Zed 1]

another bit of help please..when replacing clutch can you get away with replacing just the plates or do the springs need changing as well..any clues on generic special tools or would they be bike specific??

[Scotty]

You won't need to replace clutch springs unless seriously tuning an engine and needing to upgrade them, plates are what you change. Will you be checking the steel plates for flatness while you're at it? Easy enough job (RTFM!) If the outer basket shows signs of wear it might be worth addressing (indents from the tabs on the friction plates on the "legs" of the basket) - basket removal normally requires a special tool to hold the basket still whilst undoing the centre nut, DON'T try and lock it by jamming a large tool through he bolt posts as you'll probably break one and then need to buy a new basket. No special tool needed for spring removal, probably just a 10mm socket, and ideally an accurate low-range torque wrench to tighten the bolts on reassembly.

[Mitch9128]

Usually warping on the steels, shows up as blueing on the plates, and you can get away with replacing just the frictions. Definately make the clutch basket tool, if you need to remove, i have broken a basket before today by trying to hold it with a bar, still ran fine after though with one less post :)

[Red Zed 1]

thanks for help..clutch has general wear and tear due to age and mileage,no tuning reqd so will change the friction and check the steel plates as suggested.. :)

does the basket wear lead to sharp take up or juddering or something else..and would clutch replacement improve downshift or would that be due to wear in the gearbox..

[Mitch9128]

For sure, pic here of what to look for http://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/motorbike-clutch-question you can file out the grooves easily enough. It will most probably improve shifting, wear in the gearbox usually manifests itself in jumping out of gear/s.

[Red Zed 1]

many thanks mitch and scotty..both been very helpful. :) :)

[Jon_W]

You won't need to replace clutch springs unless seriously tuning an engine and needing to upgrade them, plates are what you change. Will you be checking the steel plates for flatness while you're at it? Easy enough job (RTFM!) If the outer basket shows signs of wear it might be worth addressing (indents from the tabs on the friction plates on the "legs" of the basket) - basket removal normally requires a special tool to hold the basket still whilst undoing the centre nut, DON'T try and lock it by jamming a large tool through he bolt posts as you'll probably break one and then need to buy a new basket. No special tool needed for spring removal, probably just a 10mm socket, and ideally an accurate low-range torque wrench to tighten the bolts on reassembly.

+1. Totally agree. No need unless they are damaged.