Clutch adjustment

[Phu Cat]

I have traditionally made my clutch adjustments at the knuckle in the middle of the clutch cable.  Does it make any difference if I adjust the clutch there or at the clutch hub?

PC

[HV]

In order to keep the ball ramp in the proper position... back off the cable all the way ( loose as possible ) then adjust the clutch nut to 1/4 in free play ..then adjust the cable to proper free play ( 1/8 in )  ...

[truck]

In order to keep the ball ramp in the proper position... back off the cable all the way ( loose as possible ) then adjust the clutch nut to 1/4 in free play ..then adjust the cable to proper free play ( 1/8 in )  ...

Can you explain that in detail?

[Princess Butt]

I usually seat the bolt in the middle of the hub, back off 3/4 of a turn, then tighten the locknut.

Then adjust the cable at the adjuster at the middle of the cable. I'll tighten it up by hand until it seats, then back off slightly. You should be able to pull the clutch cable housing out of the lever perch about 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch.

This is also a good time to lube up that cable. The newer teflon coated cables don't need lubricant (supposedly), but otherwise, use a lubricate to your taste. I like ATF, it's got a nice, light flavor with an aroma that doesn't overwhelm.

[truck]

I'm wondering about the 1/4" free play in this adjustment procedure. Is this similar to the Hippo method?

[bigfoot5x]

I think the answer to the question is yes it does make a difference. If you are adjusting the clutch only with the adjuster nut on the cable, you are not really adjusting the clutch. You are adjusting the cable only. The clutch material will gradually wear away and the clutch will not disengage. The first part of the procedure is to adjust the clutch at the clutch itself.  Start by loosening the cable adjustment. Then the shop manual says loosen the lock nut at the clutch. Screw in the adjuster until it just touches the clutch pushrod (which you cannot see) back off 1/2 to 1 turn and tighten the lock nut. Then adjust the cable for end play like you have been doing.

[truck]

What about this? adjust the clutch nut to 1/4 in free play