Have a 1993 Sportster...

Clutch is still grabbing fine, but to best describe my issue the clutch lever seems very "sloppy" and "loose" when using it. I've tried adjusting the cable by sliding the boot and tightening the jam nut but all it did was make the bike drag like it was too tight.

Are there any other adjustments? I'm thinking the clutch cable may be stretched or possible spring plate? Don't know a whole lot about this aspect. The symptoms do get worse as the bike warms up. Rolling up on 30,000 on the odometer and unfortunately I don't know the mechanical history just got the bike with 25,000 on it. And I do have a manual before anyone says it haha

Thanks!

 

Yes, you need to adjust it inside the derby cover first, then adjust the clutch cable free play.

There are many posts about how to adjust the clutch properly, please read them thoroughly, you won't make any mistakes. Be super careful taking off those derby cover Torx screws (if you have them on a '93), and replace with some Allen cap screws to make your life easier. Also, don't overtighten them, or you will strip the threads in the primary cover. Don't be "that guy."

It's most likely an adjustment issue, don't freak yet.

If you change the primary fluid too, you can check for any brass rivet fragments that would indicate a spring plate failure. It probably needs a proper adjustment.

John

 

Thanks for the reply. I'll look in my manual more on how to adjust that. And yes I've already had to drill out one of those screws on my access cover. Those things are soft as butter haha

Well hopefully its just the adjustment then. On average is there generally a mileage on having to replace spring plates or the cables? I've heard the clutches last quite a while in general as long as they arent beat on.

 

In summary, clutch adjustment is done by backing off the cable adjuster, to give a lot of slack, followed by setting the adjuster just right in the centre of the clutch, then resetting the slack in the cable. Your clutch plates are the same as in my 1990 Glide, so unless they have been badly abused they should be fine.