Robert's GSX-R Clutch Woes
I'm doing a track day so I started prepping my '02 GSX-R600. I got out my Suzuki service manual and went to work. Under Periodic Maintenance I went step by step for adjusting the clutch. The book states to turn out the adjusting screw two or three rotations, and "from there slowly turn in the adjusting screw to feel resistance; then turn out the adjusting screw ... rotations and tighten the lock nut." Under the Data icon at the bottom of the page it reads, "clutch release screw: ... turns out." Now I'm really confused. Not only do I not know what "... turns out" means, but I forgot how many turns this way and that way I went, and I haven't even gotten to the free-play adjustment at the lever yet. Basically, all I need to know is, With the adjusting screw turned all the way in, how many turns out do I go before I tighten the lock nut?Robert ScuorzoHampstead, NC
The usual setting for the adjustment screw on the clutch's actuation rod is a quarter turn out. You've already got the clutch-release cover off and have loosened the adjuster's lock nut. Make sure the knurled adjuster at the handlebar is turned all the way in to the lever assembly. Turn the actuation rod's adjuster screw out until it easily turns and the assembly feels loose against the rod. Now turn the adjuster screw in until it lightly bottoms against the rod. From there, back it out a quarter turn and then tighten the lock nut.
Put the cover back on, and then set the adjuster at the lever to the manual's specifications. You may have to change the adjuster on the cable (just above where the cable enters the sprocket cover) at this point to obtain the proper free play.
More Power From A CBR929RR
I am the proud owner of an '01 CBR929RR, and I love my motorcycle! But my question is, How much power and torque does my 929 have? I know what it is in stock form, but I have a couple of modifications. I have a full Akrapovic exhaust system and a Dynojet Power Commander. How much power and torque should this add to my bike? Also, how do I map the Power Commander, and what is the best setting?Myron McGheeMars Hill, NC
The best way to properly map your bike's Power Commander is to take it to an official PC tuning center (www.power commander.com). There your bike will be put on a dyno, and a map will be created using the company's Tuning Link software. By monitoring the exhaust gases as your bike runs on the dyno, the Power Commander can be automatically programmed for an optimum air/fuel ratio. We've ridden bikes that have been mapped in this manner, and the results are impressive. By going to a dyno you'd also get exact numbers for how much power and torque your bike makes.
His Other Bike Is A ZRX
I'm having a problem with my '84 Nighthawk. Last night I rode the bike for 60 miles with no problems. But when I filled up with gas and rode two more miles, the bike lost power and seemed like it vapor locked. I cleaned the fuel strainer on the petcock, replaced the petcock, battery and the fuel sensor in the tank and also put a new choke cable on. However, after filling the tank, the fuel gauge goes to full, and after riding 30-40 miles it shows empty. When riding, the needle will go up and down as I give it gas. Within those 30-40 miles of riding is when it seems I have the problems. This happens two to three times and then the bike runs great. I do have to turn the bike off for a minute or two then it will start.Johnvia Srmail
Your Nighthawk is showing the classic symptoms of a plugged fuel-tank breather. When the tank is close to full, the carbs quickly pull a vacuum and starve for fuel. As the fuel level decreases, there is more air in the tank and the problem goes away. The next time it happens, pop open the gas cap. If you hear air rushing in, that will confirm the breather is plugged-most likely the vent hose is kinked or blocked. California models have an elaborate venting system with a charcoal canister, and if the canister becomes filled with fuel when you overfill the tank, the system won't vent properly. Check all the hoses for kinks, make sure the canister has no fuel in it and also that the valves work as they should.