MRC Forum- brought to you by www.morini-riders-club.com Member: g7AW3f

350 strada with a very sharp clutch despite being set up as in the manual...I have removed and cleaned the plates and removed the clutch drum. Behind it is a bronze spacer with four tags which locate it on the clutch basket. While the drum was still bolted on I was able to grab the basket and move it in and out about 1mm. I'd hope to take up this slack by putting shims behind the drum as implied in an old quote from Benjy Straw. This doesn't seem to work. I'd appreciate advice on this. Thanks.

I think you need to get a replacement thrust washer (white or black) instead of the metal one, and a set of 3 ( I think) shims.(from NLM)Then try adding shims to reduce end float but still allow free turning of the drum.It's possible to overshim so the clutch won't turn at all but its easily rectified.I'd remove any burrs from the clutch plate teeth and slots as well if there are any.

My clutch rides in and out by at least 1mm, but is silky smooth in action, so clutch shimming is not the whole story. In my case the original centre was pretty beaten up and I put in a new one along with a new set of drive and friction plates. Make sure the pressure plate is lifting evenly. That's down to springs, spring cup lengths and the pressure plate itself not being distorted.

more info...thanks EV guru and 3pot john, Ive now orderd a new 'spider' (the thrust washer with 4 outer tabs) and some shims. NLM confirmed your good advice that the old thrust washer is well worn. I'll take your info into account when refitting the clutch springs but the rest of the clutch is in fine condition. (I'll measure springs later). I'll post the outcome of all this when it's done.

I've fitted a new 'spider' (dark grey plastic thrust washer)which took up all the end float and then a shim (tried different thickness 'till it was just right) gave just enough clearance to allow free movement of the clutch. I then checked the clutch actuating arm on the opposite side of the motor. Where it bears on the clutch pushrod it's worn so thin it's got a hole in it. So instead of waiting to get a blob of weld on it to be filed back to size I've temporaraly araldited a small metal plate over the hole. All seems to be acting in the way it should but I ran out of time and can't get back to it 'till next week. Watch this space.

Just made a 15 mile test ride. Lovely sunny day on the coast road towards Lands End. Clutch smooth and controlable. Thanks for all the advice.