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'86 Softail Custom

Old Mar 4, 2013 | 10:36 PM
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Default '86 Softail Custom Clutch Problems

Hey guys, I need a little help! I just brought home a 86FXSTC. A great lookin ride but non-running at the time I bought her. New battery, cleaned out the carb and she fired right up. Runs really well, compression an even 150 on both jugs and shifts butter smooth.

The problem I am having is that the clutch lever is brutally hard to pull, no joke, 15 minuets on the bike and my left hand was on ice! I pulled the cable out of the lever to clean and lube, but the the cable wasn't sticking, housing can be moved back and forth easily. I don't have a manual yet, ordered one tonight. Can anyone offer any help on where I should look, for my clutching problem?

Thanks for you help.
 

Last edited by Slammed-N-Senseless; Mar 4, 2013 at 10:50 PM.
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Old Mar 4, 2013 | 11:41 PM
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86 had the 4 speed style lever release set-up. It has a throw-out bearing that can be bad, and adjustment is very critical. Even when you get it working perfectly, it is still harder to pull than the "ball and ramp" release that they changed to in 87.
 
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Old Mar 4, 2013 | 11:54 PM
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OK, that makes sence so I need to check the throw out bearing. How do adjust it on this model. I would like to get this bike rideable for Bikeweek. Or can the throw out bearing be upgraded to the ball and ramp?
 

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Old Mar 5, 2013 | 12:59 AM
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Just went out and checked the throw out lever, even using an 8" prybar i was unable to get the lever to disengage the clutch...I guess that explains my sore hand....
 
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Old Mar 5, 2013 | 05:45 AM
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Originally Posted by Slammed-N-Senseless
can the throw out bearing be upgraded to the ball and ramp?

Yes but...it is a major pain,you have to change the "trap door"....you could buy a complete used trans off ebay cheaper than the special tools needed to do it.


Originally Posted by Slammed-N-Senseless
Just went out and checked the throw out lever, even using an 8" prybar i was unable to get the lever to disengage the clutch...I guess that explains my sore hand....

Take off the side cover and see what is worn/broken...you will need your manual soon.
 
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Old Mar 5, 2013 | 06:53 AM
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Maybe purchasing a new updated tranny is the way to go for the long haul. It would loose some authenticity but I know these first gen EVO's are getting really hard to find parts for. What year tranny can be easily swapped in?
 
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