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Softail Clutch Question???

  • FXS2011
    FXS2011
    12 years ago

    Hey all,

    Being a first time Harley owner i am a tad curious so any comments would be much appreciated.

    I bought my bike brand new from one dealer and had it's first (1600km) service at another because it was closer to home. Since the first service my bike's clutch lever doesn't spring back all the way when dis-engaged and i have noticed that when in gear with the clutch pulled in my bike is very resistant to move and you really have to muscle it forward or back unless it's in neutral.

    Does this mean my clutch has been adjusted wrong - Thus, wearing down my clutch internally? or is this standard for Harleys, especially brand new ones?

    I didn't take much notice before the service but i know 100% that my clutch sprang back all the way to the bump stop when it was let go before. The service guy's apprentice told me that it is good to have a little bit of play in the clutch lever which i thought was a bit stupid but hey - he is the training professional???

    Any help would be great guys.

    Ride safe!!!

  • the_mongrel
    the_mongrel
    12 years ago

     G'day mate,

     
    I used this method, and seems to work OK for me.  :)  You can adjust the free play out in the lever. 
     
     
     
    Here is an almost fool proof method for clutch adjustment. It takes the guesswork out of the "feel" for the adjuster. 
    Once you have opened up the derby cover and are ready to proceed...
     
    1)Collapse the adjuster on the cable sleeve all the way. 
     
    2)Pull the lever against the bar and hold it there with slight force. 
     
    3)Turn the pushrod adjuster bolt in while holding the lever against the bar lightly until it starts to force the lever away for some distance. (Do this more than once to get the feel). While keeping light pressure on the lever back the adjuster bolt out just until the lever touches the bar again and then another little bit, about 1/2 turn , then lock it. 
     
    4)Adjust the cable freeplay at the lever for 1/16" free play.
     
    You should be good to go . 
     
    Always adjust the clutch on a cold bike for best results.
     
    **It's better to adjust the clutch so that it starts to grab at least an inch or more from the bar for complete disc separation, which translates into better/quieter shifting.Using this method, you can "feel" where the lever is going to grab with a little practice.
     
    Buy yourself a cheap 11/16 deep well socket and weld a nut on top of it. This makes the perfect tool for the adjuster lock nut. You can then use an Allen wrench inside the socket and a wrench on the nut you have just welded on. Makes it a lot simpler. 
     
    OR...
     
     
    Clutch Adjustment Technique By The Book
     
     
    Let's go over the basics of clutch adjustment on late motorcycle models. 
     
    Ideally, you want the motorcycle to be on a lift or stand. The procedure can be done on the kickstand but, some primary fluid may leak out. 
     
    Back off the cable adjuster until the adjuster is fully collapsed. 
     
    Remove the derby cover and set aside. 
     
    Loosen the clutch adjuster lock nut two turns. 
     
    Turn the clutch adjuster in until it seats against the clutch release. Seated means that it is touching but not pushing against the release. At this time the clutch lever should have very little play. 
     
    Back the adjuster out 1/2 to 1 full turn from seated. Repeat this several times to get all the play out. 
     
    Lock the adjuster nut down while holding the adjuster from turning. 
     
    Work the clutch lever several times before adjusting the free play at the cable adjuster. Adjust the free play to 1/16" to 1/8" as measured at the pivot. I usually add just a little slack as a personal preference. 
     
    Work the clutch several times to make sure operation is smooth and no binding in any part of the travel. 
     
    Install the derby cover after topping off primary oil if needed. 
     
    Perform a test ride and adjust the free play as needed to get the engagement and release points correct. 
    If you cannot adjust the clutch free play with the cable adjuster, the cable may be stretched or frayed. If the cable has been replaced, the wrong cable may have been installed. 
     
    A worn or warped clutch pack will often feel as if the adjustment is bad because it tends to make the release and engagement jerky. If after adjusting the free play you still have clutch operation problems it may be time to take a look at the clutch. 
  • FXS2011
    FXS2011
    12 years ago

    Mate you're a champion.

    Thanks heaps for the detailed reply. I appreciate it!

    I'll give her a try and see how i go!!!

  • the_mongrel
    the_mongrel
    12 years ago
    No Probs mate. Happy to help. Good luck. :)

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