Gl1100 runs rough when clutch is let out

[Ridgerel]

Hey fellow GW enthusiasts! I have an 82 Gl1100 that runs great when it’s in neutral and the clutch is pulled in. When I let the clutch out, even in neutral, it drops rpm’s and runs really rough It even make some internal banging. If I put it into gear, even with the clutch engaged, it bogs down. It won’t move anywhere like that but put it neutral and pull the clutch lever in and it goes away. Every once in a while it’ll behave normally as well and even ride normally but not for very long. Do you folks think I might have a clutch issue? It feels like timing to me but I don’t have experience on this bike.
Thanks! Ridge

[billgoodwin]

The middle clutch plates are riveted together with strips of stainless spring steel to absorb shock when shifting. These are pinned in place and the pins are known to sometimes shear off, leaving the strips to make their way in between the clutch plates. I would start by removing the clutch basket and components, this is feasible with the engine in and the rear wheel removed, a bit tight but not too bad.

[Ridgerel]

Thank you Bill. That will be my first step. I’ll let you folks know how it turns out.

[newday777]

I was thinking of the same as Bill, not much else to add other than when you pull the clutch cover off you will probably find bits and pieces at the bottom of the rear case. Get yourself a flat drip pan to put on the floor before you put the bike up on the centerstand or lift to work on it so you can use a cleaning brush and diesel fuel to wash out any debris in the clutch area.
I just had my 76 CB750 project up on the lift like that to wash off the previous owners years of chain lube in the same area as your clutch.

Autozone has the drip pan for @$15

https://www.autozone.com/shop-and-garag ... 475418_0_0

Don't mind the mess on the lift. It was spring cleaning day in the shop so things got piled on the lift to sweep out the dirt and leaves that had blown in during the past month.

[Ridgerel]

Good call. I have a couple that'll work perfectly.

[newday777]

So Ridge it's been a month since you posted this, any updates?