Heavy Bantam clutch

[Y13 Alan G]

Hi, I have at long last fitted an "Easyclutch" to my D14 Bantam. Not easy but do-able. I had to shorten the outer of the existing Bantam cable by just over an inch, very tiresome and fiddly, then shorten the inner cable supplied by a similar amount and silver solder a new correct size nipple to the cable. The nipple on the cable is far too small (it dissolves with a blowlamp as it is made of hard solder). If anyone wants a picture let me know & I'll take one and load onto the Forum.
It is nearly 2 years since I have ridden my Bantam so have forgotten (I am 80 years of age so do forget things) whether or not the clutch only disengages with the engine running. I seem to remember this is the case but confirmation, or otherwise, appreciated.

[Dean Southall]

Yes, they are a pain these cast nipples. If you want to modify the inner cable you need to have  a replacement brass nipple to hand.

The clutch operates without the engine running. However, unlike most other BSAs the kick start operates on the engine side of the clutch so the kick start will turn over the engine with the clutch disengaged.

[Y13 Alan G]

Does anyone know of a source of lighter (weaker) clutch springs for a 1968 D14?

[Stubaker58]

Hi Alan,

A Bantam clutch shouldn't be too heavy with the standard springs. Have yours been changed for some heavier duty ones? I worked in a D7 clutch which required Atlas like strength to operate, changed the springs out for standard and it was fine.

There's not much else that could be wrong unless the push rod is bent? Or the ball bearing in the scroll actuator is missing?

Hope you get it sorted soon.

[Dean Southall]

I agree with Studebaker, heavier springs are available for the Bantam clutch and someone may have fitted these at some time in the past. Worth a check, also worth checking that the screw actuator is clean and not binding.

[Y13 Alan G]

Thanks for the info. The scroll actuator is ok & well greased. I'll get a set of standard clutch springs as I may have heavy duty springs. I have rebuilt the engine completely including clutch but as springs were ok didn't replace them.