250ES Clutch slipping

[86125m]

I want to know why you would soak the clutch plates as well i've never had to soak the clutch plates.

[Flyingw]

Wet plates should be wet with oil when you assemble the clutch. There is no need to long soak them just as long as they are wet when you put it together. I usually put some oil in a paper plate. Dip the plate one at a time on both sides then put it in to the clutch basket. The book usually says something to the effect of "Coat the clutch disks with engine oil". This is to ensure the clutch disks are lubricated prior to the first engine start after replacing the clutch pack. Failure to do so could result in warping the clutch disks.

Ref: SX manual page 8-18 in the note block as one example

[El Camexican]

Wet plates should be wet with oil when you assemble the clutch. There is no need to long soak them just as long as they are wet when you put it together. I usually put some oil in a paper plate. Dip the plate one at a time on both sides then put it in to the clutch basket. The book usually says something to the effect of "Coat the clutch disks with engine oil". This is to ensure the clutch disks are lubricated prior to the first engine start after replacing the clutch pack. Failure to do so could result in warping the clutch disks.

Ref: SX manual page 8-18 in the note block as one example

Exactly, The plates don't absorb any oil at all. If they did then they would also crumble apart after a few minutes of use. a light coating of oil keeps the steels from rusting if the engine is left to sit after the build and keeps it from sticking the first time you put it into gear.

[Airmapper]

Thanks everyone.

One other thought, did you measure the springs to see if they were within spec?

I did not. I should have. I will if I pull the cover again.

The centrifugal clutch shoes may be worn beyond limits or your clutch adjuster may be set too tight. Not letting the clutch to engage completely.

Centrifugal clutch isn't worn, it's practically new, but it's aged, and sat for several years.

Clutch adjuster too tight, meaning it shifts loose or firm? I re-set it after the new plates were in, but I did notice it shifts very firm, as in the pedal is stiff. It does have a bit of play like it's supposed to, but you have to pull on it pretty firm. I had boots on during my shake down ride and had a hard time shifting, which when I rode it years ago it was very light and I could shift a lot smoother.