clutch adjust
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 14,744
Likes: 402
From: Phoenix '53, '88, '09 Big Twins
if the adjustment is a "little" more or less it can show in slow engagement, slipping when engaged or grabbing when dis-engaged ( lever pulled in)- depending on temperature.
with heat the discs expand and clearances are reduced, so what works cold may not work well hot and vice versa.
clutch material and fluid influence this greatly- I've never had the need for a "magic clutch lube", the oem style works fine.
the modern system is really good and following the manual to spec will give best results.
after the clutch is adjusted, the cable is then adjusted to spec, although there is some wiggle room here.
to adjust the cable hoping to affect the clutch is an error.
mike
with heat the discs expand and clearances are reduced, so what works cold may not work well hot and vice versa.
clutch material and fluid influence this greatly- I've never had the need for a "magic clutch lube", the oem style works fine.
the modern system is really good and following the manual to spec will give best results.
after the clutch is adjusted, the cable is then adjusted to spec, although there is some wiggle room here.
to adjust the cable hoping to affect the clutch is an error.
mike
Last edited by mkguitar; Jul 23, 2012 at 03:30 PM.
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 880
Likes: 0
From: Houston, Texas
I think the service manual calls for 1/8" gap at the lever before lever is pulled and clutch is engaged. I just adjusted mine using a buddies service manual as the guide. Great resource, I'm getting one ASAP.
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Joined: Sep 2007
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Road Warrior
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1,518
Likes: 59
From: Port Neches Texas
I changed my cable the other day and adjusted per the manual, worked flawlessly. I did 600 miles over the weekend and have slack in the cable, so will take up the slack tonight. You may wish to consider changing out the screws that hold the Derby cover on and use never sieze on the threads, i went with Allen head, and by all means remove the derby cover prior to draining, ask me how I know. No luck with easy outs, spiral and flueted, small cold chisel did the trick.
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