Questionhello, i have a 97 suzuki intruder 1400 vs and i have tried to bleed the hydrolic clutch but it just does not seem to be working. i go to put it in gear and the bike cuts off. the clutch does not seem to be grabbing, but it starts and that is it. what can i do?
AnswerJesse, clutch hydraulics can be a real pain to bleed out properly. Not a Honda question, but the basics apply.
First, be sure that all the components are clean and functioning. The master cylinders have 2 bleed holes in the bottom of the reservoir. They both have to be clean and opened, so fluid can flow both ways.
Second, the clutch master cylinder pressure cups must be in good shape, otherwise the fluid will bypass the edges of the cups. If the master cylinder bore is damaged from moisture or corrosion, then the cups can't pressurize the fluid anyway. You may need a new repair kit or a replacement master cylinder.
Third, check all the turns and fluid connections in the lines from top to bottom. When the tubing has sharp bends, air can get stored in pockets in the bends. Bleed the lines from the bottom to the top, at all the fittings. People often find that using a vacuum pump is easier than trying to pump it down from the top. Other options are to use a large syringe to pump fluid into the clutch slave bleed hole, forcing the fluid back towards the master cylinder, pushing air upwards. Sometimes, it is helpful to tap on the fluid lines, at the bends and connetions, to encourage air to migrate upwards.
Fourth, If the slave cylinder seals are leaking, then you won't be able to use the pressure to push the clutch pushrod enough to release the clutch plates.
Note that many bikes have safety switches in the ignition circuit, so if you put the bike in gear with the sidestand down, it will shut off.
I don't know if Suzuki has that feature or not.
Check www.bikebandit.com for illustrations of the parts involved.
Bill MrHonda Silver
