New shifting troubles

[HobbyMan]

I love my motorcycle. The only problem is shifting sometimes. I have read all of the forums on shifting problems and can't figure it out. On my 80G, 22000miles, it shifts fine untill I get up to speed in 5th gear. When I slow down to a stop, trying to downshift, the lever goes down a little and just hangs up. I try to move it up and down to free it, then it will shift like nothing ever happpend. I don't think it is the return spring because I tried to just lift the lever up a bit, but it doesn't help. I actually have to move the lever up and down as far as I can go before it wil free itself. It only does this on occasion, but I fear one day it will get stuck in 5th gear. BTW: is it normal to get 55+ MPG highway, no fairing? Its no a mistake I calculate it every time I fill up.
Any help wiil be appreciated

[mro]

shifty sifting?

first check that clutch is adjusted properly

second can check that the shift shaft/shift lever are still lined up.

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requires removing shift cover, drain oil first, place on center stand, place tran. in second gear (may need to drop exhaust that side)

with cover off reinstall shift shaft with the tension spring on the stopper screw. Punch mark on shift shaft must align with punch mark on shift lever.

To adjust alignment turn "eccentric screw" (below/forward of shift lever. (has slot for screw driver and has a washer bent to hold lock nut.
____________

Have looked at three different XS's and all three WERE NOT out of alignment. (milage from 12,000 to 29,000)

Good Luck

mro

[TopCatGr58]

Here's a thread with photos about the shift pawl alignment that MRO well described:Shift Pawl Alignment thread

Return Spring Photo Essay!

Another possibility is that on the end of the shift drum, there are pins that the shift pawl engages. A few folks have reported that the metal plate holding the pins in place has fatigued and bent, allowing the pin to come out, or at least bend, which could also inhibit being able to shift into/out of 5th gear.

So...taking the shift cover off should provide you with answers and possible fixes, since all three of these conditions are centered here!
T.C.

[mro]

provide you with answers and possible fixes

That's why this site is so cool.


mro

[HobbyMan]

You are right, this site is awesome. Since I am going to be tearing into it, I might as well replace the return spring and any other parts I can so I don't have to do it later. I will let you know how it works out. Thanks




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I am 17, If I can do it, anyone can

[trbig]

BTW: is it normal to get 55+ MPG highway, no fairing?

I have never heard ANYONE getting that kind of gas mileage with these bikes... mine is about half that on average(28-30), but have a fairing. Feel blessed... or quit shutting the thing off going downhill! lol

Tod