CB350 clutch issue

facefirst35

facefirst35

Coast to Coast
Lately I've noticed that my clutch is kinda clanky sounding, for lack of a better description, mostly when downshifting. So for example if I go from 3rd to 2nd it feels like it's almost slamming into gear or something with a loud clank. Then today when I downshifted from 2nd to 1st initially it wouldn't shift into gear. I felt a very light grinding like the clutch lever wasn't pulled in, but it was. Other than that rides fine but I'm not sure if this is normal on an old bike or if it might be indicative of some sort of problem. I'm assuming the latter. Would it be an issue of just adjusting the clutch lever (though it seems to work fine) or does it have something to do with the actual clutch plates, basket, etc...?
 
First lube and adjust your cable. It doesn't take much for the unit to not work properly.

Second, check your oil, level and color. Some bikes are just picky. When my Savage starts missing shifts, it is time for an oil change, has done that since it was brand new.

Third be ready to pop the cover off and look at the plates. Even brand new ones can let go for no obvious reason.
 
I second what scruffy said. Adjust the clutch and check the oil. You're not using synthetic are you?
 
I am using synthetic. Is that bad? I was told it would be fine but then I read conflicting opinions online.
 
I experienced using synthetic in an old Honda. Too slippery for these clutches, even if specified for wet clutches. Better to use regular oil, especially since you need to change it every 1000-1500 miles on these motors. They only have the spinning type filter and not the normal cartridge filter. The oil gets dirty fast.
 
IIRC, there are two places to adjust the clutch, lever end & the clutch end (left side cover). Follow the manual, though. It's not hard but not intuitive if you don't have the manual. IIRC, the clutch end is done first (CCW until resistance?) then the lever with the specified play (1/2"?).
 
I've never run synthetic, but have always heard that high grade cycle oil is the best for these old bikes. Do what you said and let us know if that does the trick.
 
My friend who is a bike mechanic showed me how to properly adjust my clutch. Things seem to be better now as far as there's no slipping, which is good. It still kinda clanks into gears when downshifting. Not anything super loud but it isn't as quiet as when I upshift. Is that just the nature of the beast?
 
Do you have a high idle? normally, there should not be a noticeable "clank" into gear. A higher than normal idle will increase that clunk.
 
After adjustment I've also noticed its a bit harder to get into neutral when I'm rolling to a stop. Would I need to adjust the nut on the cable at the case?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

DTT Light or Dark

  • DTT Light
    • www.jadusmotorcycleparts.com
    www.lostapostle.ca/
    www.sparckmoto.com

    Spread the Love

    Back
    Top Bottom