GS850 clutch drags

[gssuzukixxx]

I was finally able to free up the clutch on my '79 GS850 by putting it in gear while on centre stand, pulling in clutch and strepping on back brake. But it still goes into gear with an awful clash. The funny thing is that when the clutch is freed up there seems to be little drag because the engine will idle at about the same RPM as in neutral.

My Clymer manual says that early '79 850s (mine) had an inferior "release rack" compared to later models and they suggest upgrading to the later release rack. Has anyone done this? Comments?

Thanks
Brian

[chef1366]

Take all the steels and fibers put and clean them.
Does this model use a clutch rod or a pivot type clutch actuator?

[gssuzukixxx]

Thanks Cheff for your response. Yeah that is probably a good idea to clean the plates. Maybe I will see if I can find the upgraded release rack so I can replace it when I have everything apart.

It's a pivot type.

Brian

[tomcat24551]

My Clymer manual says that early '79 850s (mine) had an inferior "release rack" compared to later models and they suggest upgrading to the later release rack. Has anyone done this? Comments?

The original release rack lets too much oil into the clutch. The improved release rack (cost: $11.44 at Carolina Cycle) has a smaller oil passage but you may find that the seal at the top of the clutch cover (where the actuator rod enters the clutch cover) may start to leak.

Suzuki solved (my "take" on it!) that potential problem by fitting an "oil jet" into the oil gallery in the clutch cover just below the seal to relieve pressure on the seal.

GSR's 49er has made other mods to his '79 850 clutch which have also helped. I think he has posted them all on this forum. Check out his posts.

Tomcat