Motorcycle Repair: Clutch gl1200 aspencade 1984, clutch master cylinder, clutch lever


Question
After the bike sits a couple of days the clutch lever is total freeplay in&out.  Takes riding it a while to get the clutch to operate.  Is this the clutch master cyclinder problem?
This is on a 1984 gl1200 aspencade.  It takes some doing to take off to get the clutch to begin working.  The adjuster has been adjusted as far as it can go at the lever.  Any help will be much appreciated.

Answer
Hi Lisa,

From the description given, I suspect a seal is leaking somewhere in the circuit or more simply, air is in the system following maintenance or repairs.

If a leak is suspected:
Look for evidence of brake fluid around the clutch master cylinder and banjo bolts (bolts that hoses connect with). Remove rubber dust cover on master cylinder (under lever end) and examine seal. If this seal is leaking, you may even hear the squish sound as parts move through fluid. You can try to find source of leak by presurizing the system with a brake bleeder tool or by forcing fluid backwards through system.

If the leak is on the slave cylinder:
Remove the case cover to access the slave cylinder. Look for obvious evidence of leaks.

You may need to obtain the Service Manual to remove the slave or master cylinder for disassembly, inspection, and repair. Visit: "www.bikebandit.com" Click "OEM Parts" when the website opens, and then select your MC from the menus that follow to see microfiche parts on-line (prices, too).

Try the above if you like and advise on your progress. Include an email address as requested. I return tech files via email.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively