Bike Damage Update

Well, I tore into the ol' RM again this evening for a closer
inspection. The first thing I discovered was a serious burnt clutch
smell when I removed the side case within the confines of my shed.

Then I found metal shavings in the bottom of both sides of the side
case assembly. Very fine, but gritty and noticable (bright silver in
dark gray oil). Fearing the worst, I removed and cleaned each
individual clutch plate. (I remind you that my water pump drive gear
broke in two in Idaho).

As you might expect, the friction plates were scored and worn on
one side. Some were scored more than others, but debris definitely got
between them. They mic out (even on the worn side) within specs...
barely. But I'd say they're shot. The drive plates are also worn thin.
Looks like a new clutch is in order too.

Oddly enough, I hadn't ridden much on this clutch or the OEM clutch
basket I bought a few years ago, but the basket's already showing
signs of (friction plate) grooving in the tab area. The tabs also
measure within spec... barely. Oh well, at least I already have a new
set of clutch springs!

Oh yeah, and my oil looked bad too. There was even some sludge-like
stuff in the lower recesses. Looks like I need to change the oil more
frequently in the Texas heat. Still seems odd though... given how
little I've ridden it.

How often do you change your oil? I do mine after every other ride.

-Jeff Deeney- DoD#0498 NCTR UTMA BRC COHVCO AMA
'99 ATK 260LQ-Stink Wheels '94 XR650L-HellSickle
We don't stop riding because we get old, we get old because we stop riding.

CrashTestDummy - '85 RM-250
f.j.bradfordREMOVE@verizon.net