My clutch jerks just before it fully engages. No matter how easy or fast I let out my clutch, just at engagement it jerks. It feels like the disks slip just before they fully engage. Do I need to replace my clutch? Would a high performance clutch solve this problem? Would a hydraulic clutch solve this problem?
We really need to know the year/model for a more specific answer. If it’s an older shovelhead-type clutch, there is a multitude of reasons this could happen. On later models, EVO and Twin Cam, the most common cause is glazing of the friction plates. Modern friction plates really don’t wear down like older materials. They do have a tendency to ‘work harden’ over the course of their usage. The combination of oil saturation and countless heat/cold cycles tends to harden the material.
It looses its resiliency, gets hard and brittle and starts slipping and gets glazed. In first gear, when the clutch first engages, the clutch is both slipping and trying to hook up at the same time and that sets up a chatter condition. It’s usually at a low speed when you’re trying to feather it and get a smooth transition from stopped to moving that it’s most notable. Once the bikes moving, the chatter usually goes away. The plates don’t dis-engage that much when you’re shifting gears. The friction plates can be de-glazed by removing them and carefully using a scotchbrite pad. Just enough pressure to take the shine off of them. You don’t want to remove any friction material. This is, at best, a temporary fix. If they are hardened and glazed, it’s time for a replacement. Certain oils can accelerate the glazing. Use only a motorcycle – specific oil, designed for your application. Remember, not all clutch problems are ‘plate’ related. Chatter can be caused by a worn or frayed clutch cable, worn throwout bearing, improper adjustment, defective mainshafts, worn hubs or hubliners (old shovels), worn or grooved baskets, to name a few.
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Ive got a 47 Susicide shift Problem breaking gear bar due too clutch adjustment The bike has been repaired by several HD shops in Oh Wv Pa Ect pick it up check the clutch when the bike is not running everything's fine till you start it up and put it in gear Boom breaks my gear shaft ? I know she's old and fradgil but I miss her dearly Had In Milwalkee once offered me a new bike for her but I passed now I have no option or answers but from you I've read your articles and I must say every part still fits like a glove I'm thinking bearing being warped causing the problem but how do I check that for specs ?