Oil with friction modifiers or labeled gas saving or synthetic are contrary to the working of the clutch. Three rolls are driven by a cam to engage the inside rim of a drum. They are driven by light springs ,but require a bit if friction to fully engage or lock to the drum.
So check you oil container for any of the no no’s
So I am guessing based on that the Rotella T6 Synthetic 5W-40 is the issue? (Sorry I assumed since it was rated JASO, JASO MA/ MA2) it was okay). I'm also reading a lot on this forum with people saying they use this exact oil.
Well I went out and tired it again and it wasn't catching. It's definitely much better than it was. I'm going to let it sit overnight, ride it tomorrow, and see what happens.
I have a new starter clutch in hand if it's still doing it after the next few days I will go ahead and replace it.
I'm guessing the springs are worn and the extra slickness from they synthetic oil didn't help.
My thoughts on it are, I 100% agree with fog that the synthetic oil led to the clutch slipping. But once it started slipping damage has occurred to the clutch that makes it prone to more slipping, regardless of the oil. I think the fact that yours is better but still not perfect more or less confirms this.
I don't put too much stock in the possibility that the springs are worn to the point of the issue. But I'm only basing this on the history of mine going tens of thousands of miles with out issue.
While I have you all on board, let me ask one more thing.
For the starter clutch replacement I'm reading a lot about make sure it's lubricated. Is this necessary or is it okay to put in in dry and then assume the oil will pull up to the mechanism.
The welds may already be broken and would account for the intermittent slippage.
I would recomend a inspection. if it is the weld ,it will eventually slip completely and strand you.
Pull it off and look for flat spots on the rollers, give the rollers a light coat of iol fram a rag and throw it all back together. If the weld fog is refering to is broken you should be able to see it and order the replacment.
The weld will show thin cracks don't think it OK if it is only welded in 4 places it's junk take it to a welded and have it re welded all the way round.
a replacement will break too, they all do.
Just curious, could you notice any wear at all on the old rollers compared to the new ones? Maybe small flat spots on the round portion? And did the old springs look compressed at all compared to the new ones?
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Ex-500.com - The home of the Kawasaki EX500 / Ninja 500R
756.5K posts
27.2K members
Since 2006
A forum community dedicated to Kawasaki Ninja EX 500 sportbike owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about modifications, cafe racers, racing, classifieds, troubleshooting, accessories, maintenance, and more!