clutch stiffness

[eddie50clarke]

havin a spot of trouble with the clutch on my gs550,tried putting in gear with the clutch pressed but it jumped forward and stalled.the lever was mega stiff when i pulled it.took the clutch cover off the side and sqeezed the lever and it was nice and soft.sprayed with wd40 then put cover back on but was still stiff a board to pull. any ideas

cheers ed

[Steve]

First of all, WD40 is not going to help.

With the cover off, there is no tension on the cable. As a cable wears, it forms a groove inside the sheath. When there is tension on the cable, it can get pulled down into that groove, making it very hard to pull the lever. Your only solution is a new cable. OEM cables cost a little more, but are much better than aftermarket cables.

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[Mop Bucket]

I have a stiff clutch also. I have read about keeping the cables greased, would this be something first before a new cable?

[Big T]

I have a stiff clutch also. I have read about keeping the cables greased, would this be something first before a new cable?

yes, altho grease is too heavy a lube. Try a penetrating oil for starters

[gearhead13]

I have a cable luber that I use for maintenance, it forces your lube (or WD-40) all the way through the cable and comes out the other end, ensuring a good lube.

[Adler]

My understanding is that graphite lube is best for cables

[Steve]

My understanding is that graphite lube is best for cables

Graphite is great for something that does not get used too often, like a lock.

You also have to remember that powdered graphite is actually rather abrasive.

That would tend to accelerate the wear, instead of prevent it.

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