hey all, my 550 is running really good, but too good for the clutch.!
when i hit the powerband at around 5-6000rpm.. the clutch is slipping... even if i hold back a little the throttle!
the clutch and springs have only done about 5000km.. but after tuning and rebuild its just not strong enough.. and i am using gear oil for wet clutch..
any suggestions? stronger springs maybe?
here is a link to my 550 café..
http://www.allansgarage.blogspot.com" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
clutch slip after tuning
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- Allan k
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clutch slip after tuning
2-strokes are full of speed,
4-strokes are full of parts!
4-strokes are full of parts!
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Re: clutch slip after tuning
Stronger springs "should" fix you right up.
Visiting from the "K" camp...........
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Re: clutch slip after tuning
I bet its your oil. What did you use, specifically. The clutch plates are very sensitive to switching oil types and that is 99% of the time the problem. Stronger springs is rarely the answer. And if trying to do that can lead to bigger problems like a cracked basket if you try to shim them up and goofy stuff like that to make them stiffer.
Just my 2 cents. My first post on this site, but Ive been riding and wrenching on street and dirt bikes for 35 years and have some experience.
Just my 2 cents. My first post on this site, but Ive been riding and wrenching on street and dirt bikes for 35 years and have some experience.
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- On the street
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Re: clutch slip after tuning
By the way, beautiful bike. Ive got the same year. What an awesome bike.
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Re: clutch slip after tuning

Sure you know about some modern oils not being compatible with wet clutches.I stopped using motor oil in my gearbox (GT750A) now use Castrol MX "gearbox oil"designed for two strokes,seems to have helped with clutch drag when motor is cold,expensive,but I think it offers good protection for gears & clutch.

Cheers,
GT750Battleship.
GT750Battleship.
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Re: clutch slip after tuning
Allan k
When is the last time you checked the Clutch Release Arm to ensure the Clutch Push Rod has some free play?
Sometimes if oil too thick and or cold you'll slip, but stops or improves when hot? Gear oil?
if you can find say Barnett springs for a 550 they may be stiffer and that should do it for you. Tradeoff is lever harder to pull, Builds muscles
If not another trick may be to put a washer between the clutch spring screw and clutch spring. if you can find an off the shelve washer with correct diameter.
When is the last time you checked the Clutch Release Arm to ensure the Clutch Push Rod has some free play?
Sometimes if oil too thick and or cold you'll slip, but stops or improves when hot? Gear oil?
if you can find say Barnett springs for a 550 they may be stiffer and that should do it for you. Tradeoff is lever harder to pull, Builds muscles
If not another trick may be to put a washer between the clutch spring screw and clutch spring. if you can find an off the shelve washer with correct diameter.
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