Clutch Bearing (Rumble?)

Jake68 · 650Rider Supporter Joined: Mar 23, 2007 Posts: 841

Hi Everyone,

I feel (literally) that my clutch bearing needs attention.

The bike now rides and runs perfectly. But it has literally been a matter of refining it down from something that barely worked.

On problem I have noticed is that the clutch rumbles.

y question is...is there a removeable bronze bearing that the clutch basket runs on? (I cant remember as the bottom end and 'box was rebuilt way before the rest of the engine was completed due to a break in my enthusasim for the project about 4 years ago!)

As I remember the engine drives the basket and the basket via the plates drives the centre hub attached to the gear box input, and its these bearings that are roller.
Does the basket run on its own bearing thats external to the gearbox? One that can hopefully be replaced without a tear down?

I was told by another owner at a local hangout that he considered this "normal" as his machine did it too...but I cant help but feel it could be improved with a new clutch bearing / bushing...if I have the layout correct in my head?

xsleo · Posted: April 10, 2009, 5:53 pm Post subject: Re: Clutch Bearing (Rumble?)

The only roller bearing is a thrust bearing between the basket and tranny input shaft. The basket rides on a bronze or brass bushing between the basket and hub.
To get to the clutch you just need to pull the right side engine cover, drain the oil first.

Retiredgentleman · Posted: April 10, 2009, 9:47 pm Post subject: Re: Clutch Bearing (Rumble?)

This picture of my clutch may help. You can see how the clutch basket runs on the grooved spacer.

The picture shows some minor damage that was done due to a missing washer.

Retiredgentleman · Posted: April 10, 2009, 9:52 pm Post subject: Re: Clutch Bearing (Rumble?)

Another view of the clutch. The bearing indicated is the roller thrust bearing.

gordo · Posted: April 10, 2009, 9:55 pm Post subject: Re: Clutch Bearing (Rumble?)

Jake, your problem could be the cush spring's as shown in RG's photo, they will make alot of noise if loose. Also check the 'fit' of the basket to the splines on the input to the trans. Should be real snug.

Jake68 · 650Rider Supporter Joined: Mar 23, 2007 Posts: 841

I presume that the grooved spacer can be replaced?
Either that or the bronze bushing?

Or is it a new clutch basket..if there is up and downward movement on the basket?

ind you it runs good. I am probably asking too much of a 30 year old machine thats otherwise perfect Smile

Dont panic leo, I re-made the motor myself completely out of parts in crates over a 4 year period of waning funds and enthusasm before I found you lot Smile

xsjohn · Posted: April 11, 2009, 10:15 pm Post subject: Re: Clutch Bearing (Rumble?)

Bearing noises.......the R/S main can also fool you if it's going bad which they do now and again............to tell if it's the main or clutch remove the clutch completely and replace the side cover and oil............it will start with the E start and hurt nothing.......if there is still a rumble it's the engine side.......if not then maybe the clutch or assoiciated bearings or transmission........

xsjohn

Jake68 · 650Rider Supporter Joined: Mar 23, 2007 Posts: 841

Thanks John, feels likely clutch though because its speed / gear dependant not rpm dependant..

Feels very similar to my RD350 YPVS that needed a new clutch basket bush..

Just dont know if you can get these, seems maybe not?

The basket does move up and down very slightly when all oil drained out..

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