BSA B31 swinging arm clutch problem

[Abhi]

Hi

I am from India and new to this forum.
I have a 1957 B31 giving clutch problem.
 
The clutch does not disengage even after pulling the clutch lever when put in gear.
However the clutch slips when kicking.

Will this bushing work instead of the bearing ?

It was working with this bush previously.

Please advise.

Thanks

[neil1964]

The problem you describe is one of adjustment. 
Start from scratch with good friction plates. Check the plates are all flat (not warped).  Check the springs are all of the correct length.
Ensure the pushrod is not worn, cable and pivot (on bar) are oiled and not slack.
Adjust the chrome lever on the gearbox with the adjuster screw to be 90 to the cable when in the clutch disengaged position. Then take up slack in cable.
Adjust springs so no slip on kickstart pressure. Evenly 1/4 turn at a time.
Check plate lifting evenly (dial gauge best but wire pointer will do.
No a bush will not suffice.

[Abhi]

Hi Neil,

Thanks for your advice.
I'll follow the procedure and fit the clutch assembly.
I'll fit a bearing instead of the bush.

Thanks

[neil1964]

Hi Neil,

Thanks for your advice.
I'll follow the procedure and fit the clutch assembly.
I'll fit a bearing instead of the bush.

Thanks

The OEM type dual track bearing looks quite cheap and nasty with its pressed steel cage but the cage only stops the balls wandering out of their grooves(take care on fitting the cages the right way round and pack with grease - the case oil is for the chain not the bearing). I bought a Draganfly version with alloy cage but the cage was a tight fit.  I ended up using new rollers and races reusing the old cage as mine was not broken.
If your parts are in spec and you set it up correctly the clutch is pretty sweet and robust (on a stock 350/500 at least). Highly tuned racers or side cars less so.