Clutch engages on higher throttle. Normal?

[bbergstr]

Just got this Apex (2008). Comparing to other sleds I've owned in the past (although they were much older), it seems like this is not normal. Or is it? Clutch seems to engage on high throttle position. Here's a video:

It was sitting in a warm garage so it wasn't bad but seems you need to give it a bit more when cold. Do I have clutch problems? If so, primary or secondary? If it is a clutch problem, what do I need to look for?


Thanks.

 

[steiner]

What rpm is it engaging at? 3500rpm??

 

[bbergstr]

What rpm is it engaging at? 3500rpm??

Sorry for the poor video. I meant to show the tach when it engages. I'll double check that and get back to you.

What should it engage at?

 

[NOS-PRO]

Just got this Apex (2008). Comparing to other sleds I've owned in the past (although they were much older), it seems like this is not normal. Or is it? Clutch seems to engage on high throttle position. Here's a video:

It was sitting in a warm garage so it wasn't bad but seems you need to give it a bit more when cold. Do I have clutch problems? If so, primary or secondary? If it is a clutch problem, what do I need to look for?


Thanks.

Check with Thunder Products Clutching as a post was just started with an Apex clutch that was having high engagement problems about 4,000-4,500 miles. The clutch was extremely dirty, the belt residue and debris from trail riding built up in the pockets of the clutch and twisted the plastic sliders in the primary clutch causing a very tight/clutch sticking primary clutch.

Clutch looks like brand new now!

 

[bbergstr]

So when cold, Tach is at about 4800 rpm to engage clutch. When warmed up, it engages at 4000 to 4100.

 

[74Nitro]

Check with Thunder Products Clutching as a post was just started with an Apex clutch that was having high engagement problems about 4,000-4,500 miles. The clutch was extremely dirty, the belt residue and debris from trail riding built up in the pockets of the clutch and twisted the plastic sliders in the primary clutch causing a very tight/clutch sticking primary clutch.

Clutch looks like brand new now!

View attachment 154771

Notice how that slider is starting to turn slightly sideways. I would put a new one on, (just the three that have the 0-ring cut out).

 

[bbergstr]

Thanks for posting the pics. Wow, I'll have to take a closer look. Maybe that's the main problem.

 

[74Nitro]

To find exact engagement, remove panels and watch movable sheave while also watching tach. SLOWLY increase engine rpm until the movable sheave moves. That is engagement rpm.

 

[74Nitro]

Notice how that slider is starting to turn slightly sideways. I would put a new one on, (just the three that have the 0-ring cut out).

My bad, I thought that was a pic of the original posters clutch.

 

[steiner]

I would say you have dirty clutches.
Post some pics of the clutches. Also the the previous owner may have done a clutch kit and other mods on your mountain machine

 

[Thunder Products]

Thanks for posting the pics. Wow, I'll have to take a closer look. Maybe that's the main problem.

We at Thunder Products Clutching want to make sure your clutching works properly. Make sure you blow out clutches with compressed air, don't use any caustic cleaners and check for heat cracks and deformities. Usual life span of a clutch is about 6,000 miles if properly maintained.