Clutch not disengaging

[Stephen Pitts]

Hi All

1954 Colt recently purchased, and just going over a few things. I have noticed within a few minutes of the engine being run, the clutch us not disengaging.
Any ideas of where I need to be.

Thanks

Steve

[JohnnyBeckett]

hi it maybe the clutch plates are sticking and need cleaning with brake and clutch cleaner and adjusting

[Stephen Pitts]

Thanks

[Simon.Gardiner]

I'd first check anything that might make the gear change graunchy (I assume this is how the problem shows) - chain tensions and clutch adjustment for starters maybe (and whether there's the right oil in t he right places).
I'd also try to assess how easily the clutch frees when the engine isn't running - if it only frees up at the end of the lever travel and everything else is in order then you've probably got sticking (or buckled) plates (as Johnny says) .
However, while the cover is off to clean the plates it's also worth checking the pressure plate is lifting evenly.
(It's difficult to work out a condition of a clutch only working OK when the engine's not running - so most of the advice I can suggest is along the lines of 'make sure it's set up properly to begin with', which might not seem very helpful.)
(And with admin hat on, I think this qualifies as 'technical' so moved accordingly.)

SG

[D Turner]

Not entirely sure with the Colt but some of the C series BSA bikes have the clutch springs tighten down to a stop so no real adjustment.
It is also a fairly common mod to add a plate and lengthen the push rod.