Clutch problems

Havoc · 07-09-2012, 10:18 PM

Ok. I have a 96 suzuki katana 600. I've had a few issues with it but I thought I had it in ship shape. Today it did something new. My clutch wouldn't fully disengage. If I pulled the clutch lever all the way to the hand grip I could finally get it to disengage enough to shift smoothly. I used to only have to pull it about halfway.

My question is: Does this sound like an adjustment issue, a clutch cable needing replacing, or a bad clutch altogether?

Any input is great. Thanks everyone!
- Dan.

Dodsfall · 07-10-2012, 12:26 AM

It could be any of the above.

I'd try to adjust the cable to spec first and see if that helps. Also check to be sure the cable is not damaged or frayed in any way.

Clutches usually just start to slip if they are worn. It sounds like your problem is somewhat the opposite.

cbdallas · 07-10-2012, 08:46 AM

I wouldn't rule out the possibility that your cable is getting ready to break. Adjust it to where there's about 2mm of play between the handle and the base when the clutch is released. If you're still not getting full disengagement after that, it's time to figure out why.

FNA · 07-10-2012, 04:35 PM

Look at what you are dealing with.

If you suddenly have no clutch for half the travel, could easily be a cable on its way out. Take a look where it mounts at lever. If it is good, then start adjustments.

07-09-2012, 10:18 PM	#1
Havoc Verified Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: South East Michigan Posts: 26	Clutch problems Ok. I have a 96 suzuki katana 600. I've had a few issues with it but I thought I had it in ship shape. Today it did something new. My clutch wouldn't fully disengage. If I pulled the clutch lever all the way to the hand grip I could finally get it to disengage enough to shift smoothly. I used to only have to pull it about halfway. My question is: Does this sound like an adjustment issue, a clutch cable needing replacing, or a bad clutch altogether? Any input is great. Thanks everyone! - Dan.

07-10-2012, 12:26 AM	#2
Dodsfall Administrator Join Date: May 2008 Location: Illinois, USA Posts: 15,903	It could be any of the above. I'd try to adjust the cable to spec first and see if that helps. Also check to be sure the cable is not damaged or frayed in any way. Clutches usually just start to slip if they are worn. It sounds like your problem is somewhat the opposite. __________________ 2008 XL1200R To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

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07-10-2012, 08:46 AM	#3
cbdallas Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Wylie, TX Posts: 1,786	I wouldn't rule out the possibility that your cable is getting ready to break. Adjust it to where there's about 2mm of play between the handle and the base when the clutch is released. If you're still not getting full disengagement after that, it's time to figure out why.

07-10-2012, 04:35 PM	#4
FNA Master At Arms Join Date: May 2012 Location: South Jersey Posts: 121	Look at what you are dealing with. If you suddenly have no clutch for half the travel, could easily be a cable on its way out. Take a look where it mounts at lever. If it is good, then start adjustments.