Clutch problem

[Glenn Read]

I brought an Interstate yesterday, on the way home I noticed that the clutch leaver pressure and bite point varied. Once or twice during the 110 mile trip I lost all the pressure and the clutch dragged. Now that the bike has been stood still for nearly a day, there is some pressure when pulling the leaver. Anyone have any ideas?

[SIR tricky]

Probably there is air in the master cylinder.
No doubt the previous owner couldnt figure it out either.

The clutch master cylinder can be a pain.

Try this but be careful with the clutch fluid it will remove paint as good as paint remover.

First make sure the level of the fluid is correct.
Place several cloths under the master cylinder to soak up any fluid that may drip out and crack open the banjo nut that holds the hose onto the housing, apply the clutch lever and before allowing the lever to release tighten up the the nut.

There should be a firm pressure when applying the clutch.

If that doesnt solve it come back and we shall see what else we can do.

[Glenn Read]

I have brought a master cylinder repair kit along with the oil and piston seals for the slave cylinder. Is it possible to remove the slave cylinder without removing the engine from the frame as per the Honda workshop manual?

[Guest]

I have gotten the slave cylinder out without removing the engine. It will probably require 1/4 drive short sockets and a small ratchet. An 8mm ratcheting WRENCH works well on all but one bolt. Check your clutch lever! There is a small brass "barrel" that applies pressure to the master cylinder. If it's worn, it makes the clutch do all kinds of strange things. They're about ten bucks at the honda dealer.

[Ranch55]

I have brought a master cylinder repair kit along with the oil and piston seals for the slave cylinder. Is it possible to remove the slave cylinder without removing the engine from the frame as per the Honda workshop manual?

Yes, definitely...... I have done this two or three times over the years on my '84 Aspencade. Just be patient, take your time, and it will work out just fine without moving the engine at all.

[Glenn Read]

Jobs for the weekend

Replace the slave cylinder seals
overhaul the master cylinder
clean and rebush the starter motor if necessary
fit Autocom Active 7 intercom

[Guest]

Hey guys,
Any hints/instructions on rebuilding the slave cylinder? I took it off before reading the posts regarding the master cylinder, however, there is a good amount of fluid coming out of the hydraulic line that goes to the slave cylinder when I squeeze the lever.
There was some dampness around the back cover, though. I think I know now what the wierd smell is I've had after the bike gets warm, hot brake fluid. Where does the fluid go? Not the engine oil I hope.
I like the prices of the rebuild kits vs. the new slave cylinder, but I'm getting impatient to get 'er back on the road. One thing after another it seems....