Clutch Adjustment

Chris,

As you make reference to “the  fancy  tools  shown in the manual” I assume you do have a copy of said tome.  (If not it can be downloded from the technical pages).

The book shows 2 methods.  The first (plate 24 in the drawings section) does indeed require some (relatively) sophisticated equipment but the second – plate 24a – is aimed at those who do not have that apparatus readily available.

You will see it does require the manufacture of three simple blocks and recommends using a surface plate.   Any competent machine shop will be able to manufacture these blocks from the fully dimensioned drawing given.  I had a set made some thirty years ago, and in addition to the numerous times I have used them myself, they have since been borrowed by a number of other owners as they cost little to post (within the UK).  I would be most surprised if nobody in NZ has already made a set which they would be prepared to lend/hire to you.

However, if you do need to have a set made locally I am sure the cost which will not break the bank – and then you can hire them out!

Prior to obtaining a wonderful surface plate from a garage that was closing down, I always used a good quality mirror for the flat surface but a piece of float glass will be equally serviceable – the thicker the better to minimise distortion under the weight of the clutch components.

I hope this helps.

B……………….

I was keen to have ago at toggle adjustment but the advice line said I would be better off taking it to a clutch specialist.  I have a 1955 11C with 4 cyclinder performa engine, the cluch friction plate and flywheel has been rectified, and reassembled with fresh springs, spacer washers, toggle bolts washers and nuts. Is there any specific information I need to give to the clutch centre or will they just know what to set it at?  Thanks regards Alain

Alain,

Do you know anybody with an original spare parts catalogue?  Unfortunately, I do not have the spares book but I do have a manual for the ID.  See operation 41 in the relevant page from the ID workshop manual ………

This clearly says no “lock washers” and does not mention a plate.

I must admit I am surprised because the “11D” Traction engines definitely had a one piece “amoeba” locking plate for those screws.

Personally, I think I would want to fit one on an engine destined for a Light 15 – it can surely do no harm and could save a lot of long-term grief.

B….

• This reply was modified 3 years, 5 months ago by Bernie.

Alain,

Proud?   How much? Is it simply held off by the bearing?

I need to check but, if memory serves me correctly, the locking plate is formed to allow the bearing to protrude a couple of mm from the flywheel and the plate then also serves to retain the bearing.  Cutting a “bearing size” hole would defeat that object.

B….