Motorcycle Repair: 86 Honda Shadow 1100 Clutch Problem, clutch master cylinder, honda shadow 1100

Question
Chris, I am having some problems with my '86 Honda Shadow 1100.  My Dad recently purchased it from a guy that he works with and it has been running great until we encountered some clutch problems on a ride last fall.  The clutch master cylinder actually ran empty.  We never had any spots under the bike where it could have been leaking fluid.  Now there is no pressure in the clutch and cannot be rode.  We have rebuilt the clutch master cylinder and closely inspected the slave cylinder (which looks fine) as well.  After repeatively bleeding the clutch, we still have no pressure in the handle.  There are no leaks in the line either.  Is there a chance that we are overlooking something simple, because the set-up really isn't very complicated, but we are both stumped- not use to working on bikes.  Any advice/ideals would be GREATLY appreciated.  THX-Jason

Answer
Hi Jason.
 Some bikes (Magna and Shadow included) have an additional problem with both the clutch and front brakes.  The problem stems from the configuration of the master cylinder, which is that the connection to the hydraulic line at the master cylinder creates a pocket that air bubbles like to hide in (this is called a reverse trap) and the method for bleeding that section is a little tricky if you've never done this before.

 Here's the proceedure;

1) Bleed the clutch/brake line like normal.

2) Put a wrench on the banjo fitting (the bolt on the end of the master cylinder) and squeeze the lever.


3) (NOTE: Use a box end wrench for this) While holding the clutch/brake lever in, crack loose the fitting and reclose it quickly. Have a rag over the fitting connection that you are working on because it will spit at you as pressure expells the air and a little fluid.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not release pressure on the lever till the fitting is tightened back up or you will suck air back into the line.

4) Test the clutch/brake again.  If done correctly, you will have pressure near the beginning of the lever movement rather than at the end (or none at all).

5) repeat as needed, but should not need more than 2-3 times.

Good luck.
FALCON