83 GS1100E clutch slip

[Guest]

New stock clutch, replace an old Barnett performance clutch. Had the new clutch put in at a shop. Old clutch had a first gear shake, new one was nice and smooth. The only issue now is when the bike is cold 140 or below it slips under heavy throttle, getting on the freeway or when at 60-70 and get on the gas hard. As soon as it's above 140 temp, it goes away. California bike with 15,000 miles I have about 3000 miles on the new clutch, think the problem was always there but did not notice right away

Any ideas?

[chef1366]

Did the shop replace the clutch springs? I hope he soaked the new clutch fibers in oil before installing them. It sounds like a spring issue with the pressure plate. If he did replace the springs and if you have the old ones try putting on two of the heavy duty springs directly accross from each other.

[Road_Clam]

Did the shop replace new clutch springs? .

Exactly my thoughts. And my suspicion is "NO" on the springs. 25 year old GS springs will become "laxed" and loose their free height, not allowing adequate pressure as compared to new. When I replaced my clutch springs there was a difference of .250" between the old worn out springs, and the fresh OEM ones...

[Steve]

Another way to verify weak springs is to temporarily place a washer under each spring. The added tension should keep it from slipping. If this fixes your problem, it is best to replace the springs. In fact, since springs are cheap (Bike Bandit shows them for $2.29, and you need six of them), just get them and a new gasket ($7.21) and do it all at once for just under $27, including shipping. \\/


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[bonanzadave]

Make sure theres a little free play in the clutch cable when released.