I have a 1994 GS500E that I got like a month ago and the clutch has been like this since I got it. I don't know if it's supposed to be like this or not ( friend told me somethings wrong ) but the clutch engages and disengages perfectly and has never slipped but when releasing the handle it only catches on the last few mm. If I adjust it so it catches sooner then there is still only a mm or two that has clutch and the rest is free play. Is there something wrong or are they normally like this? I have searched and found that it could be worn or glazed but it only had 2400miles on it when I got it and now 3200mi and hasn't changed.
This is what is called a narrow friction zone. There's no adjustment for it, just make sure that you check the screw/locknut adjustment under the plate that's fastened to the sprocket cover with 2 screws just in case there's no clearance in the pushrod assy. :cheers:
how do I know if that rod needs adjusted? How far in or out should it be?
Alright I read an old post and properly adjusted my clutch but I won't know if it's any better or not until I get a new tire. Will adjusting this rod fix the narrow friction zone? If not then how can I fix it?
To adjust, loosen the lock not and back teh screw out a bit. Now turn it in until it makes contact, and then back it out 1/4 to 1/2 turn per the manual. Tighten lock nut. Reset lever free play with the cable adjusters.
Jeffrey
Quote from: jordan172005 on May 17, 2007, 06:39:07 PM
Will adjusting this rod fix the narrow friction zone? If not then how can I fix it?
The pushrod/actuator adjustment will only help if there was no clearance beforehand. There is no adjustment to broaden the engagement zone per se.... You can lube your cable to ensure smooth operation and good feel at the lever.
As for "fixing" anything, you would have to determine that the clutch is functioning outside the range of normal and assume there is a problem with the actuator itself (under sprocket cover) or that the clutch friction plates are wearing thin or that the previous owner installed heavy-duty springs or additional preload. :dunno_white:
so the only way to fix this would be to install new clutch friction plates? If I do this I will buy the EBC clutch kit from bikebandit.com is this a good pick? also since I'd be in there already should I go ahead and buy the aftermarket springs too? It says they are 10% stronger.
Quote from: jordan172005 on May 19, 2007, 04:35:27 PM
so the only way to fix this would be to install new clutch friction plates?
That's not exactly what I said, but EBC clutch plates, while lightweight and performance oriented, are not necessarily the same quality as OEM. Are they cheaper? Heavy-duty springs again are performance oriented and meant to keep the clutch from slipping. None of this means
user friendly at the clutch lever...certainly not the springs. :dunno_white: :dunno_white: :dunno_white:
Sounds perfectly normal to me. I'd leave it alone. Dialing in slack only moves the friction zone. Adjust to taste.