Clutch Shaft End Float

[geoffbain]

Stripped the clutch on my 1959 CSR 650, and discovered that there is about 1/8" end float on the gear box main shaft. Is this normal? If not, anybody got any ideas? (when assembled the whole clutch including chainwheel moves in/out by 1/8")

[zwarts]

There should be zero end float on the mainshaft as it is positively located at the timing side end. The mainshaft has a reduced dia. which fits through the ball race and is threaded to take the retaining nut. End float would suggest that either the retaining nut has come loose or the ball race is moving in its housing (it should be an interference fit in the housing). You can gain access for inspection by removing the gearbox end cover followed by removal of the clutch operating arm housing. The latter is retained by a threaded ring with slots cut in for a special tube spanner (try not to use a punch and hammer- it's easy to make a mess here). Good luck,
Bob.

[geoffbain]

Spot on Bob - that's exactly what the problem was! Tightened nut up (considerably) and shaft end float gone - thanks again, greatly appreciated.
Geoff

[wilko]

You caught that one in time!