Cr500 clutch issues. A testicle question

[09.0]

So why would a clutch when slipped at the start ( third gear ), would it then have a lot of free play instantly?
So you readjust ( quite a lot ) while circulating, then when it cools down you have to adjust it back down ( not enough free play ).
I have a second identical cr500 that plays the game quite well so I swapped the whole clutch assy except for the push rod, hat and ball bearing. You guessed it, it's still doing the same thing.
 So something is expanding right? The push rod? The ball bearing?

[Hoony]

mine did a similar thing Bradman, could never get the free play right, not a period correct fix but i fitted a Magura Hydraulic clutch and that solved it, it also made for a better feel.

sorry don't know what the issue is but the expanding theory sounds about right. the same post to cr500riders forum may produce an answer or one of the faceybook pages

[FourstrokeForever]

Got me scratchin the noggin..... are you running the same oil in both bikes? Does the trouble bike run hotter than the other?

[tony27]

Plates are swelling when you abuse them off the line, when they cool back down the freeplay disappears

[09.0]

Plates are swelling when you abuse them off the line, when they cool back down the freeplay disappears

Clutch plates swelling makes the clutch slip, therefore no free play. Mine goes the other way. Big free play until it cools down.

[Noel]

I dont know the set up on the CR 500 (what year?) but the clutch swelling could move the pressure plate away from the push rod if it is actuated from the opposite side to the clutch,
Xt 500 Yamaha does this after a few third gear dirt track starts

Possible distortion of pressure plate?
Why one and not the other no idea!
not much help

[09.0]

Plates are swelling when you abuse them off the line, when they cool back down the freeplay disappears

after having a discussion and being told what is happening it is now crystal clear that you are 100% correct Tony. The plates swelling is giving the clutch more free play. I had it completely arse about face. Looks like I need some better plates. Cheers.