Hey all,

I have a question about the adjustment procedure for a cable-controlled clutch for a 2014 RK.

Per the shop manual, after loosening the clutch cable tension to “introduce a large amount of free play at the clutch hand lever”, you then proceed to loosen the jamnut on the clutch, and then adjust the clutch adjuster screw, and then tighten the jamnut on the clutch. The manual then indicates “Squeeze clutch lever to maximum limit three times to set ball and ramp release mechanism.” It then instructs you to turn the clutch cable free-play adjuster until slack is eliminated at the clutch hand lever.

My question: Should you remove some of the slack in the clutch cable before you “Squeeze clutch lever to maximum limit three times to set ball and ramp release mechanism.”?? I assume so, otherwise how could the ball and ramp release mechanism be set? I assume the last step is to make the final adjustment to the clutch lever cable free play. The manual is not clear on the issue of cable tension just before setting the ball and ramp release mechanism.

I did the above procedure a few times in the past for my 04 Fat Boy, but it’s been awhile. Please confirm there should be some tension in the clutch cable in order to set the ball and ramp release mechanism.

Thanks all…
Regards

 

subscribed.

 

Yes, just as you say. and end with 1/16" at the lever when pulling the cable ferrule away from the lever.

 

Hey all -

Thanks for the quick reply. Got my Saturday morning plans now that the rain is coming this weekend...

 

Slack in cable ... Loosen locknut on actuator ... Turn actuator until it 'seats' then back it off 1/8 - 1/4 turn (check manual for correct amount) ... Tighten locknut (while holding actuator) ... Remove slack from cable and work it a few times to set ball/ramp ... Adjust cable free play - you should have roughly the thickness of a dime between lever and perch "slack" when properly adjusted ...
Improper adjustment at either end can cause clutch-slippage ... Even slippage that you don't notice can prematurely wear your clutch.

 

If you have a little play in the cable at the lever, you are probably OK. If you loosen it, do not go to far. When you do the lever while adjusting the clutch screw, lever to you fill no play and then turn in 1 complete turn further to deburr thread. Then back off couple turns and come back levering till you fill exactly no play, then back off your 3/4 turn and lock the nut. (note low amount of torque in inch lbs.) Now set you 1/16 cable play checking both sides of bars stop to stop. it will probably not change again for 40K + miles.

 

Thanks again all...

Regards