Adjusting the clutch through the inspection hole A50

[Tigerfeet]

I wanted to check the free play on the clutch rod was still correctly set, so popped off the inspection cover. But I am now puzzling how I can get a spanner on the lock nut whilst holding the centre screw. Obviously with the primary drive cover off I could get a ring spanner on the lock nut and a screwdriver on the screw. But there is no space operating through the little hole.  The original BSA handbook says it is the way to check this...  So I am wondering if anyone has done it recently and can describe the tool.  Seems I need a box / tube spanner with the tommy bar welded on the outside to leave the centre unobstructed....

[DAVE BRADY]

Hi,

I use a long socket held in Mole grips.  Get the grips really tight.

Dave.

[limeyrob]

You can get a cheap box spanner and saw it to an inch or so long then weld a handle on it.

[scifi]

Hi Tiger-Feet.   You do realise that there are three locations to check the free play of the clutch push-rod..?
1.. Obviously the centre of the Clutch assembly.
2.. The other end of the push-rod, which should be square with the actuating lever.
3.. The Clutch Lever on the Handlebars, which should have 1/4 to 1/8th inch play at it's tip.
As long as the Clutch lever has that play, then you should be Ok.

Same as for setting tappet clearances. It is a good idea to know how many tpi the threaded adjuster has.. If it is near 20 tpi, then a full turn will give 50 thou of clearance.