QuestionI have a 1972 CB350K4. It is all stock and runs very well since I had the carbs cleaned and tuned. After a day of taking a riding class that involved a lot of clutch use, the clutch is much more difficult to release. Nothing happened suddenly. Could it be as simple as the cable needing grease or it is more likely a bigger deal? Thanks.
AnswerRick, First, loosen all the cable adjusters at handlebars and going into the side cover where the cable inserts.
Loosen the clutch adjuster locking nut and turn the adjuster screw clockwise, until it stops, then back off 1/16" Test the "feel" of the clutch pull, then make a cable adjustment at the case, to take up most of the slack, so you can fine-tune the rest at the handlebars.
That whole clutch release mechanism should be cleaned and greased up liberally, at some point, however. Plus, you can look at the parts to see if the ball bearing ramps are wearing out, which can cause the clutch release to go over-travel, making a snapping sound, followed by a LOT of cable slack as the parts pop out of their normal locations. If the end of the clutch pushrod gets too dished from years of contact, it changes the geometry of the release mechanism, so should be changed.
http://www.cmsnl.com/honda-cb350-super-sport-350-k3-usa_model432/partslist/E++10
The cable could be breaking strands internally, if it is the original cable, though. Not a bad idea to drizzle some light oil down the cable from the top to help lubricate the inner portion. New cables have teflon liners, so the clutch pull is much less of a factor, regarding cable friction, though.
Bill Silver
