clutch issue

[dazco]

i know this isn't the right forum, but there really isn't a forum for mechanical problems and the speedmaster/america forums won't get to more than a few people at most. So here goes. The other day on a ride i noticed as i took off from a stop i got a split second of vibration from my clutch just as i was letting it out. Happened twice so far and i'm wondering if anyone knows what it could be. Both times i was taking off somewhat hard to get away from the pack of cars after splitting lanes to the red light. The bike has about 23k, so it's much too young for a worn clutch. (I don't beat it up at all) Any thoughts?

 

[Doug]

Sorry I can't throw any light on that one,but while we're on the subject of clutches,what are your thoughts on the theory that some synthetic oils(I use Castrol sport 10w60) can cause clutch slip?

 

[dazco]

Not a theory, it's fact. The friction modifiers used in some automotive oils can cause that. Thats why it's good to stick to bike oils like M1 vtwin or such. They even specify on the bottle that they're for wet clutches i believe.

 

[fuzzy]

"They" say that some of the automotive synthetics have "friction modifiers" that are not compatible with motorcycle clutch systems (too slippery). I have a friend who has several Jap bikes and rides the peediddley out of each of them. He uses Amalie full synthetic automotive oil and has had no problems. I use Amsoil 20-50 motorcycle oil.

Grandpaul will come along soon and can answer any tech question you may have.

Sorry 'bout that, Daz. I tried to post at the same time.

 

[DaveM]

Sorry I cannot be much help here either.

 

[devo]

And I've never experianced it either.
As for oil, stick with a mc 4T and you will be sweet.
:y18:

 

[dazco]

[quote author=fuzzy link=topic=1155.msg8132#msg8132 date=1219170685]
"They" say that some of the automotive synthetics have "friction modifiers" that are not compatible with motorcycle clutch systems (too slippery). I have a friend who has several Jap bikes and rides the peediddley out of each of them. He uses Amalie full synthetic automotive oil and has had no problems. I use Amsoil 20-50 motorcycle oil.

Grandpaul will come along soon and can answer any tech question you may have.

Sorry 'bout that, Daz. I tried to post at the same time.
[/quote]

There are synthetic auto oils that don't have extended mileage friction modifiers in them. maybe he's using one of those. But even if he is, from what i've gathered it's not a black and white issue. That is to say, some bikes can't handle it while others can. But i think oil like that should be avoided generally.

 

[CarlS]

For our wet clutches, use an oil with the specification JASO MA. The JASO is the more important of the two. The friction reducers in automotive oils can cause wet clutches to slip. Also, the motorcycle oils have some additives no longer put in automotive oil.

 

[fuzzy]

[quote author=CarlS link=topic=1155.msg8154#msg8154 date=1219181835]
For our wet clutches, use an oil with the specification JASO MA. The JASO is the more important of the two. The friction reducers in automotive oils can cause wet clutches to slip. Also, the motorcycle oils have some additives no longer put in automotive oil.
[/quote]

I have a friend who is convinced that new oil is the reason for the cam bearing failure in his '71 350 Chevelle.

That new oil/additive issue is the reason I use a deisel rated 15-40 in the '69 Bonnie.

 

[CarlS]

You are right, Fuzzy. I have forgotten the name of the additives that are no longer used in automotive oil and I'm too lazy to look it up. Racing oils still have it and diesel oils do, too. . If I had a classic car, I would use racing oil or diesel oil in it. The new oils are designed to meet CAFE and EPA standards - they are not designed to give maximum engine protection. I use Rotella T in Mae Lyne's truck and of, of course in my diesel truck.. However, the diesel oil does not prevent wheel bearings from going out! :y114:

 

[Lonzo]

Mine does that. I noticed my clutch slipping if I downshifted and hit WOT, like passing a car or something. I bought a Barnett clutch and springs. After researching (and not having a clutch tool), I switched the springs only. Clutch doesn't slip at all anymore, but doesn't feel like new, either. I get a little chatter before it grabs. One of these days I'll change the plates.

 

[avion]

What you can also try is have a look at the clutch basket, and see if there is any wear on the slots, they'll appear like ridges or dimples from the plates. Just take a file and smooth them off - should get rid of chatter and hesitation when releasing the clutch.

hth

...

 

[Lioness]

Holey Smoking ball bags - you get wet and dry clutches? They use oil? Thats what your dealer is for - sorting out stuff. I know how to fill up the tank But then again I'm a chick :y72: