[NickC]

Hi All

I've been using the new rotax max clutch since January, and I've had it break 3 times. Has anyone else been breaking the new clutch?
Does anyone know why its breaking?

More Info:
It either breaks near the small bolts that hold the clutch element to the starter gear, or about a half centremetre away from there.

heres some pics:
http://sites.google.com/site/nickcookza/

Any info appreciated.

Thanks

[Mikko Nassi]

I hope you're getting the replacements under warranty!

Not sure what could be causing it - 3 clutches on the same engine?

One thing I have noticed is that the only drivers that seem to have the clutches breaking are drivers that lock up often under braking. This puts massive stress on the clutch.

Do you happen to be fairly aggressive under braking?

[NickC]

Hi Mikko

I've had the first two change under warranty, only just broke the 3rd. Do you know how long the warranty lasts for?

All three have broken on the same engine... engine had a full rebuild in february, and the old clutches used to last the same amount of time as anyone elses on this engine. The new clutch is lasting a much shorter time for me than the old one.

As for braking, I don't lock up, or get the kart sideways, we use Bridgestone YJB tyres, if you lock up, you increase your breaking distance.

Thanks

[gp8]

We broke one in exactly the same place. I believe it was fractured by warming up the engine on the stand and using the brakes to add load. We don't use the brakes to add load any more...

[guyermer]

We have had two unexplained breakages.
Unfortunately we threw the broken clutch away so there is no way for us to compare them or claim under warranty. It would be interesting to keep a photographic record and see if they are breaking in a common way.

[RocK]

I believe it was fractured by warming up the engine on the stand and using the brakes to add load. We don't use the brakes to add load any more...

hmm, i dont think its about loading. i advise best to get the clutch temperature up 1st before using brakes to add load..