I am restoring a 85 fxwg basket case that had been apart for 6 years. I decided to put it together first to see what problems I might have or what parts were missing. After 1.5 years I am road testing. The problem I am having is that the bike will act like the clutch is pulled in, this is only sometimes. It will go through the gears but not engauge. This happens at random. I shut the engine off and everything is fine for a while. Any ideas where to look for the problem. Maybe the clutch assy slipping on the transmission shaft.

 

Check the large ring gear on the clutch basket for signs that it is slipping, also check the clutch hub to see if the key is there and not sheared.

 

Will check it out...thnks

 

Im guessing on the key too!

 

Shaft key appears to be in place. No worn disks on clutch. Could this be in the transmission?

 

If something was slipping in the transmission, it would probably make some ugly noise.

Center of the clutch hub where the taper/key is, is it a steel insert that could be spinning in the hub?

Clutch cable and ramp/ball assembly, pushrod, all working ok?

Clutch adjusted properly at center adjustment point and cable?

Remember there are two ways to install the pressure plate on these old style clutches, A&B...you might try removing the bolts and rotate the pressure plate to the next position and reassemble.

Compensator tight...

Maybe just needs clutch plates.

85FXWG...Nice

 

Isn't 85 one of the first diaphragm clutches? Doesn't take much for a diaphragm spring to not do it's thing as far as putting pressure on the clutch pack.

 

Measured the plates and discs...all within tolerances. I will replace the spring disc while I have it this far down. Key replaced. Thank you for the advice.

 

I had the same thing happen to me. Check for wear on your shifter paw. it took me 2 years to find.

 

This is in the top end of the transmission....can it be easily replaced?