clutch

[cywelchjr]

there is also a small knock while trying to start sounds like it comes from generator area which causes an drop in power but engine turns over faster with cluch lever pulled in. hopefullyits just sticking plates, and needs to be cleaned also was running automoive oil in engine and tranny for about 135 miles. I gather that as the real culprit but the chattering and clacking while riding hopefully is from sticking plates.

If the bike is in neutral then there should be NO difference in crank over speed with the clutch pulled in or not. If there is, then something in the gear train is dragging.

If there is a knock when cranking then something is moving/hitting something and it needs to be dealt with. If it sounds like it's coming from the alternator area make sure its not dragging anywhere.

As for the automotive oil, its the only thing I have run in any of my bikes, and I've got an XS400 that has over 50000 miles on it that is till running good (and 50000 is high miles for those little twins, and yes, I KNOW it's all original, I bought it from my uncle who was the original owner). If you have chattering or clacking while riding, there is something wrong with the motor, depending on where it's coming from it could either be in the valve train, or the bearings as likely culprits, although with the difference in cranking speed with the clutch pulled in an may be troubles with the transmission.

[DGXSER]

I have run nothing but auto oil in my bike so far, about 7,000 miles on it this year. (not on the smae oil or filter mind you.) No clutch problems here.

[trbig]

there is also a small knock while trying to start sounds like it comes from generator area which causes an drop in power but engine turns over faster with cluch lever pulled in. hopefullyits just sticking plates, and needs to be cleaned also was running automoive oil in engine and tranny for about 135 miles. I gather that as the real culprit but the chattering and clacking while riding hopefully is from sticking plates.

It sounds to me like the rotor rubbing on the stator. If the cover isn't installed EXACTLY where it's supposed to, it will rub the stator. This will cause a power loss, and a rubbed stator.. even if just slightly rubbed.. is junk. Pull the alternator cover off and look for evidence of contact.. shavings, shiny spot on rotor or stator.. etc. You have to use the guide pins for the cover. If those are missing and you just try to use the screws to line it up.. it will rub. I'm tellin' ya, it has to be exactly right. The clearance is really close. Hopefully it is the clutch though.


Tod