clutch recommendation Enfield + Hatz 1B40

[Sphere]

My clutch housing currently shelters a 3-disc setup. Would it be better/beneficial to move to a 4-disc or even 5-disc setup? Anyone with experience concerning this topic?

[Diesel Dave]

Yes, the 3 plate is barely up to the task on an old Greaves engine and the IB40 is quite a bit more powerful.

Go straight to the new 5 plate clutch.

Dave

[Sphere]

So today I experienced it first hand. The 3 plate clutch kinda sucks. Ass. A lot. Is it possible to fit the 5 plate kit to the 3 plate drum? From the part list it seems the are different If not, would it be possible to modify the drum? Are there any other pointers to prevent slip? Oil in the inner case is 80W90 (GL5).

[Dan J]

Dave can correct me if I'm wrong but I understand the 4 plate clutch sits in a larger basket (hence the different part numbers) but this basket can be simply fitted in place. The 5 plate conversion will fit in the 4 plate basket but not the 3.

My bike was also upgraded as the convertor (Henry Price) had found exactly what Dave describes - the 3 plate simply isn't up to it and slips. In fact I'd go with Dave's recommendation of the 5 plate. I can live with my 4 plate but even that still slips and is very hard to adjust so happy with both cold and hot.

Good luck...

Dan

[Sphere]

Hi Dan,

Thanks. Do you know if you can buy just the drum or only complete assemblies?

[Sphere]

I have asked around, and opted to buy a complete 4speed 5plate assembly. Unfortunately the seller claims no stock. So I have contacted other sellers. Another option would be to temporarily fit the handstarter and pray the 3 plate clutch allows you to accelerate, but someone said even the 5 plate clutch will only barely do at low rpm.

Also I would have to modify the gearlever (again). Or maybe file away at the starter housing of the Hatz. Good thing Nanko is patient and doesn't mind waiting for a month or so

[Sphere]

I think it finally hit home that I can't just use the 500cc clutch centre. My Enfield manual states that the splines on the axle are longer. So I probably need:

- clutch centre
- drum/sprocket assembly
- more/new plates
- heavier springs
- different gearbox axle for the new clutch (main shaft sleeve?)