D2 5U Steering Clutch...

[Kiwicat]

My D2 (5U5996) doesn't get a lot of use - maybe an hour a month if I'm lucky. I noticed when I used it today that the right hand steering clutch won't engage properly unless the lever is physically pushed forward. The left hand one worked fine. I've taken the plug off the bottom of the clutch cavity and, other than a bit of oil & water (from condensation I'm guessing), nothing of interest fell out.
The lever is adjusted correctly, and well lubricated.
I do recall reading somewhere about filling the clutch cavity up with kerosene and driving back & forth for ten minutes or so (without disengaging the clutch) to clean it out, and then draining the kerosene. Sounds a bit drastic though! - is there another solution?
Thanks for the help.

[Roland]

Hi I sounds like a linkage problem maybe worth taking off the cover under the seat there is a bell crank sometimes the shaft seizes in them, otherwise you could try the kero , my clutchs were stuck and wouldent release and had to be stripped out and cleaned , good luck.. oh hope alls well in NZ I was lucky enough to spend 6 monthes in the Auckland area in 96

[ol Grump]

About the only reason to rinse the steering clutch/brake is when the brake doesn't work properly due to grease and oil buildup on the drum. I think Roland has the right idea. . .sticky/dry/rusted/gummed up linkage somewhere in there. The fact that you got some water out of the drain pretty much verifies that.

[Kiwicat]

... very much for taking the time to offer advice. I shall check out the linkages the next time I'm allowed out to play.

[Kiwicat]

Yep, you were right - one of the linkages under the panel just in front of the seat needed freeing up. Gave it a clean and lube and now it's back to normal. Thanks again for the help. Just need to find some time now to get out and use it!

[ol Grump]

Unless you're running in deep water, one trick that I learned about these old critters was to take the drain plugs out and drill a 5/16" hole thru 'em and put a long 1/4" cotter pin in 'em. The pin rattles around and keeps condensation and oil drained out. Even if you don't drill the plugs, it's a good idea to take 'em out every few months and check for oil/water. Also, a little silicone or a gasket under the access covers will keep rain out of the compartments.