Clutch Bind?

[Pep]

Does this sound familiar to anyone? It's something I’ve not encountered before.
Bike rides good, clutch works nice and the pull is smooth.
Until…it’s not.
The clutch lever suddenly gets real stiff, like pulling on a tight brake lever, and the clutch won’t disengage (no clutch).
Then, as mysteriously as it appeared, it’s gone. I can’t tie it to anything in particular (rpm, gear, etc.). In fact, it did it with the bike off when I rolled it back in the shop. Pull on the lever, no problem, no problem, then stuck, then no problem.
This has been a frustrating day with a 250 Penton, so riding a Hodaka was supposed to be a relief!
Any ideas? This is a Super Combat, new clutch plates/discs and basket. Everything was in spec on the recent rebuild. Cable is new and lubed, both levers are clean.
I’ll tear into it tomorrow, but was wondering if any experts had tips on what to check.
Muchas Gracias,
Laurie

[Bullfrog]

I've got my money bet on a loose clutch nut.

Ed

[Pep]

Well, that oughta jump out and hit me in the face tomorrow!
Thanks Ed

[rough rider]

Make sure that you did not forget the inner clutch thrust washer. That will also cause that clutch nut to back off. Don't ask me how I know. Richard

[eichco1]

I would guess loose clutch nut as well.

When you retighten the nut, use some loctite on the threads.
You can try blue, but I wouldn't be surprised if you have to use red to keep the nut tight.

Mark in Illinois
#492

[Pep]

Thanks guys, that was indeed the problem - apparently I skipped the locktite on this one.
-Laurie