How to change a clutch

[Mdow]

Anybady had a write up on how to change a cluth out on a GS? how exspensive is it and can you change it with out pulling the motor out?

[dgyver]

Do you have a service manual? They have all of the steps and install specs. Not difficult, takes 2-3 hours depending on your experience. The motor can stay in the frame. Basically you remove the right side cover (there is a hidden screw under the signal generator plate) and the clutch is right there. Make sure you do not block the oil pressure sensor channel on reassembly. Clutch assembly (~$60-70) and gasket (~$10-15) are the only parts needed.

[Mdow]

so i just need the 6 or 7 clutch disks? i think i saw there were like 11 bucks each? 

ok i just found that section in the service manual its in disasably not clutch.  ya that looks freakin cake.

do i realy need that specaty hub holder tool?

basicly the bike i will be getting saterday might be needing a clutch and i didn't want to buy the bike and get screwed by not being able to afford to replace the clutch.

[dgyver]

I do not not remember the disk quantities. I think it is 7. I would have to look at one at home later. ben2go has posted recently about purchasing a clutch with cost and qty.

You do not need the clutch holding tool. With the engine in the frame, put it in gear and apply the rear brake. This will keep the clutch from turning when loosening the bolts. Another way is to insert a screwdriver (or a penny, softer) in the gears as they mesh.

[Mdow]

sweet ok on the parts guides online they tell you howmany their are but i just didn't remeber right off.

thank you so much.  hopfully i will not have to do the clutch anytime soon but now i know

THanks again

[ben2go]

Here is the post dgyver is referring to. http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=42447.0

I did the 99-02 SV650 upgrade.I got a lot of stuff off ebay,but your local dealer will have somethings cheaper because of shipping.Mac cycles on Ebay have a good street friction discs and they're around $45 delivered.You can reuse your stock springs or upgrade them for more grip.Just remember stiffer springs are going to make the lever harder to pull in.Gasket is cheaper from a local dealer.It took me around 30 to 45 minutes to do my clutch.I've done a few before.I'd set aside 2 hours in case you have to scarp the gasket off the engine and cover.You can use gasket remover just be aware that it will strip paint.Soak the friction discs in a zip lock bag with oil while you are disassembling every thing.The oil in the bag can be used in the engine as long as you keep it clean.You will also need every thing to change the oil.Change the filter too.Cheap insurance.The bolts that hold the clutch together require very little torque.Be aware that the bolts are very easy to break.They are torqued in inch pounds.These type torque wrenches are usually around $15 at harbor freight.If you're in upstate SC or western NC,I'm willing to lend a hand and tools.

[Mdow]

^ thanks alot for the info and the offer im in blacksburg VA so alittle farther north then you.  talked to the seller again today and said that he was mistaken he was used to his other bike pulling alot harder (850cc)  but i might still do it this winter so i have a full season of riding.

[ben2go]

Clutches don't go bad on the GS frequently.The PO of my bike changed the basket,steel discs,and outer pressure plate,but didn't change the friction discs or springs.I thought at first I was having carb problems but it was the clutch slipping.If the clutch isn't slipping,I'd ride it and keep up on the oil/filter changes.