Z1 Clutch Springs

I pulled the clutch cover off and cleaned up the steel and fiber plates on the Z1 as with prolonged sitting the clutch would not disengage. I measured the clutch springs and according to my manual they are real close to needing to be replaced. What do you guys think, what is a good replacement spring, its completely stock with about 5.5K miles and I do not ride it hard so I don’t need a super heavy duty spring. The measurements are as follows. Should I use gasket sealer on the new cover gasket, both sides, one side, none at all? Thanks


Manual Specs.
Standard = 33.8mm
Service = 32.3

Actual Measurements
32.56mm
32.39mm
32.36mm
32.39mm
32.40mm

Based on your description of the problem your springs are fine. When the clutch sits for an extended period the plates can sometimes stick together. When this happens the clutch does not easily disengage. Sometimes it helps if (with the engine OFF) you put the bike in gear, pull in the clutch, and rock the bike forward and backward until the plates break free. Weak clutch springs make this problem less likely, so it seems that your springs are plenty strong enough.

If for some reason you decide to replace the springs use stock springs. Heavy duty springs are not needed for street use and will only result in premature cable failure and left arm fatigue with no added benefit.

You should not use a sealant on the clutch cover gasket. The manual would specify sealant and would be very specific about where to apply it if it was needed. Putting it on when not needed will only make removing the clutch cover difficult next time and will not add any benefit. Ed

Thanks for your reply Ed

Your specs are pretty close to the service limit and since you have it apart ....... They are pretty cheap.

Could be quite a while before you have it apart again also. I've read quite a few folks replace these every 2-3 years or so but then they are run considerably harder that you will.

I've ran Barnett HD springs since 83 also and am still on the original cable (and power lever) Its only a 10% increase over stock. I could hardly tell the difference (in lever feel) when I replaced them last time even though they sagged .040 over the years. I've also read that a few add a small washer to increase the tention on the stockers but in your case this wouldn't be needed or recommended.

KZB2 650 wrote: Your specs are pretty close to the service limit and since you have it apart ....... They are pretty cheap.

I agree, I just ordered a stock set. thanks for the reply