TS250/1 Clutch-Initially does not disengage

[Daniel_I]

Hi All,
If the bike hasn't been ridden for a few days... the clutch does not initially disengage. After starting the engine, If I attempt to depress the clutch lever and put it into 1st gear the engine will stall. I live on a hill, so after starting the engine, I coast done the hill in Neutral and then go into 1st gear, rev up the engine a little and the clutch frees itself and then operates correctly. The mechanic who worked on the bike 6 years ago said this should correct itself after some wearing in. I have not ridden it much at all over the years... but it still sticks. Was the mechanic correct? Will it really fix itself with some more riding? Or do I need to repair it? I now live a long way away from that mechanic and he is non-contactable. Any suggestions gratefully received. Many thanks.

[Blurredman]

What gearbox oil did he use?


I one came a cropper when I installed GL5 type transmission oil. This makes the plates stick.. You need to put in the engine GL 3 or GL4!!. 80/90.

[Daniel_I]

Thanks for your reply. Now I am kinda confused... I recently did a gear oil change and I just found the container.. It's a Caltex brand: Thuban GL-5 EP (API GL-5) BUT it also says SAE 80W-90... Appreciate your input. Thanks again.

[AlanJ]

Hi Dan,
Blurredman is right don't use GL5, for what it's worth I use FUCHS Silkolene Light Gear Oil Sae75/80, works fine.
Wish you well Alan.

[Daniel_I]

I'll drain and try the oil you recommended. Many thanks, Blurredman and AlanJ.

[AlanJ]

Hi Dan,
I have just had a thought that might be something to do with the problem. Before I did the refurb on my 77 TS 250/1 it had been standing in the corner of my garage not used for quite a few years and I tried to start the engine but the clutch was seized together and it would not free. On taking the cover off I could see the problem, the plates were stuck together with a furry rust, that's the only way I can explain it. I guess what had happened the oil does not cover the whole clutch when it is standing still, so, the part not covered in oil can rust. Of course, if your bike has not stood for some years then this won't be a problem, but I thought it worth a mention.
Wish you well Alan.

[Daniel_I]

Put in a lighter (as recommended in the Haynes manual for sticky clutches) and as you guys suggested. All good now. many thanks.

[Blurredman]

I'm confused as to why you waited 5 years !