GL 1200I clutch nut removal

[dkcloud]

I recently changed the clutches in my '84 GL1200I.
I did this with the engine in the bike and ran into the clutch nut problem.

What I did was use a "king gator" Gator Grip Universal socket from Sears.
It is a 1/2" drive socket with spring loaded rods inside that will work on nuts/bolts from 7/16"-11/4" or 11-32mm.
The "fingers" in the socket worked very well, I just positioned the socket to center with the clutch nut and all went well.
The internal rods "conformed" to the slots in the clutch nut with ease.

I would recommend a 1/2" small breaker bar or a small head ratchet so it would not interfere with the center stand.

I laid the bike on its right side so I had an easier access to the nuts and bolts of the clutch cover.
I also used a 1/4" drive 8mm & 10mm universal socket to remove the clutch slave and cover.

[WingAdmin]

That's a fantastic idea!

I've used one of those sockets many times. It works great on stripped nuts, as well as things you wouldn't normally use tools on - wing nuts, for instance.

[dkcloud]

The socket I have is different.
The retractable rods inside the socket will poke through the slots in the clutch nut for easy removal.
I found that the sockets come in two sizes.
the 3/8 drive socket is too small but the 1/2 drive works great.
My only problem was I could not torque the nut when re installing.
I did this job with the engine in the bike and the center stand would not allow my 1/2" drive torque wrench to fit.
I just used a small head 1/2" drive to fit into the socket and "winged it"

[WingAdmin]

Nope, that's exactly the socket I have. It works great! I have a 3/8" inch one, looks about the same size as the one in your picture. I don't have the 1/2" one.

[dkcloud]

I am going to measure the diameter of that nut.
(I wish I could have found a set of spanner sockets but I they are not to be found in this part of the world.)

I could not use my torque wrench because the head was too big and it interfered with the center stand.
I put the nut inside the socket, the nut fit easily with little clearance and rods filled each slot on the nut.

I would have loved to use a 3/8 drive instead of a 1/2" drive but it is too late for that now.

The only reason the clutch cover is not on the bike is because I am waiting for an oil seal for the clutch slave cyl.