Unable to pull in clutch lever!

[ianmartin40]

Hi Guys
I am riding a classic vespa with a 04 px 125 motor fitted, using a cosa clutch and new style flange clutch nut. recently i have had occasional clutch problems, usually coming up to junctions where i am unable to pull in clutch lever and need to stall scoot to stop, sometimes the lever is siezed for 5 mins, sometimes frees off right away, always comes good eventually and i can ride home. when clutch works it is fine, lever and cable all free, arm onto case cover all ok, scoot does have a bit of clutch drag when warm.
The current set-up has been good for a couple of seasons, had new clutch plates fitted 800 miles ago.

I do not think there are that many things it could be, thinking about changing pressure plate and plates/springs. I see there are some complete clutches on e-bay at very cheap prices, any info on these?

All help/inputs appreciated

Ian

[vespasco]

Take off your clutch Cover and centre pressure plate. And inspect. !!
It could be a spring come loose which could do lots of damage
Or it could be your cable With any luck.
Theres some great clutch info on here. Try a search.

[sbwnik]

Make sure the cable is adjusted correctly

[pxguru]

Could possibly be a damaged clutch basket. Will need to take the clutch out to inspect it. I wouldn't ride it too far from home until I knew what this was

[ianmartin40]

I have already taken the clutch casing cover off for a look, all appeared ok, I then put back together and problem persists, currently awaiting delivery of clutch compress tool and I will remove clutch and dismantle to check springs/plates etc I have also ordered a new pressure plate and the wire clip that goes with it.

to clarify what way does the spring clip that goes with the pressure plate go?

I will post my findings if any

Ian

[sbwnik]

Have you tried pulling the lever when you have the cover off? Just to rule out the cable/lever etc.

[ianmartin40]

Yes lever, cable and actuator arm all ok, but like I said it can be fine for a few miles, becomes problematic, then comes good again and rides home fine, always been ok when engine off etc and I am not able to predict or cause fault, it would make fault finding easier if I could make it happen at will!

Ian

[sbwnik]

Pull the clutch out, look at every component, replace anything slightly tired. Clutches can be quite a high wear part, and don't take a lot of abuse sometimes.

[ianmartin40]

The update

Hi guys, on my second inspection and this time a bit more thorough, I found the clutch retaining nut to be loose, and the pressure plate and associated parts a bit worn looking so I replaced them with new, the clutch plates, springs and basket all look to be in very good condition so refitted
Took scoot out for a ride and all good.
Thanks for your inputs and advice

Ian