Lighter B40 Clutc

[Pauldemob]

Hi
can you suggest how I can make the clutch on my 1967 WD B40 lighter, getting older , hands not as good .
Fitted bigger later levers , new chain wheel and plates.  Centre drum ok

Thanks
Paul

[Mike Farmer]

 

Just as a matter of interest are you using the original springs. Cos my thoughts are that a lot of the new ones are too long and too hard.

Mike

[JulianS]

BSA usually used handlebar levers with 7/8 inch centres - lever pivot to centre of cable nipple. These give a lighter lever and more progressive action than levers with larger centre measurement. Clucth may need careful adjustment to prevent dragging.

Some levers sold have 1 1/16 inch centres which give a heavier clutch and less progressive action.

Make sure the cable is in good condition and I suggest a light lubricant such as WD40 applied regularly, it also flushes out any dirt or other detritus from the cable. Thick lubricant or grease can trap dirt etc in the cable.

Make sure the cable has a smooth route and is not clamped to the frame with clips or rubber ties.

[Pauldemob]

Hi all thanks for the responses
I have new old stock springs from Lee Mitchel (Old Dog on EBay) who is a BSA WD B40 specialist, so they should be good, old ones have been in all the time i have owned the bike,  40 years and were all different lengths.
ordered a Universal Easy Pull Clutch Lightener System - 3 Settings For Leverage Ratio Adjustment from Feked .com if anyone has used one.? will need some work to get cables to match but worth a try.
Have re-balanced the clutch so it runs true now and
new cable
I think maybe  problem is old hands

[DAVE BRADY]

Hi,

Also, along with Julians comments re levers and cable run, try and get a cable with a teflon, or similar, liner.  No lubricant needed except for some Vaseline to protect the exposed parts of the inner cable.  You will notice the difference.

Dave.

[Pete C]

There are also devices on the market made specifically for this problem.

have a look at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELEZm0WYUIk   or google any "easy pull clutch "

you can get them for less tha €30 in the Uk or Europe. Try 24mx

I haven't tried one myself but if you have Real Classic magaizine there is an article in this month's issue

cheers
Pete

[Mike40M]

Some minor improvement can be to make sure the nipple rotates freely in the the lever and grease it.