Penton 1976 MC5 250

[Bryan Adams]

My clutch is not functioning correctly on my '76 MC5 250. I have replaced the clutch cable, inspected the clutch plates and changed the oil.
The bike shifts through the gears fine when riding.
The problem I'm having is shifting into neutral with the motor running.
Any comments or ideas on what could be the cause would be greatly appreciated.

[Carl Hill]

The clutch actuator on the right side of the engine was a weak point in my opinion. They were prone to wear. If the housing isn't worn out you can take it apart and inspect it. There is a small pin that makes contact with the push rod, look for a flat spot there. Al at pentonpartsusa usually has them in stock.

[slvrbrdfxr]

Yes, the clutch is not fully disengaging when you're pulling in the clutch lever which makes it difficult to find neutral with the engine running. I've experienced this more with the sintered copper friction discs installed and have had better luck when using fiber friction discs. I agree with Carl to replace any worn parts in the external clutch actuator on right side of engine. Also be sure the pushrods running through the transmission shaft aren't worn/damaged including the ball bearing between the two pushrod halves. Be sure that all friction disc thickness are within manual specs. Check the "x" dimension between the clutch actuator arm and engine case to ensure the actuator arm has enough throw to disengage the clutch. Good luck.
Dave McC

[Rain Man]

Slow the idle speed down till almost a stall. .02c