1960 Gold Flash Clutch plates slipping

[ellis]

Kicking the bike over from cold the clutch seems to be slipping. When warm there's no clutch slippage and the bike starts first kick. I have an SRM complete clutch assembly fitted and kept the oil level so it just touches the bottom of the primary chain. Is it possible that oil getting on the plates could cause this problem. I adjusted the clutch when fitted so it would stall the engine and since this cold slippage has occurred I have increased the spring pressure by one full turn on the spring screws but the problem still exists. any suggestions would be helpful. I am using Castrol SAE 30w as advised by SRM.     


ELLIS.
 

[chaterlea25]

Hi Ellis,
Check for free play at the clutch lever on the gearbox
The clutch will have bedded in and the pushrod clearance will have decreased
Most owners run either ATF or motorcycle engine oil suitable for wet clutches
I use 10/40 Castrol 4T

John

[ellis]

Thanks chaterlea25,
   Yes there is free play at the clutch lever and at the handle bar lever. I used to run ATF on my old clutch but SRM recommend Engine oil which I have had in since I fitted the new clutch two months ago. I don't wish to go against SRM recommendations but if I cannot find a solution I may have to go back to ATF and see if this improves it. Any suggestions on how I can clean the plates of oil before I try ATF.

ELLIS

[Slippery Sam]

Would also be worth checking the clutch spring tension it's self - might just be at the loose end of tolerance - especially it's a recently bedded in clutch set.  On my clutch (bob Newby Belt) - I think there's something like a turn or turn and a half between loosest and tightest tolerance (6 to 7 turns 'ish).  Could be the difference you need?
Raymond.

[chaterlea25]

Hi Ellis,

Any suggestions on how I can clean the plates of oil before I try ATF.

The best way is to dismantle the clutch and wash the plates in petrol or degreaser

John

[metalflake11]

Mine tends to slip exactly the same on first start of the day when the weather get cooler. No slip after that, either starting or riding two up. I've still got 40 weight oil in mine, but I do run the primary on 10/40 Castrol 4T as Chaterlea suggests.

Strange one.