I am a bit confused over what should be the correct length for the clutch rod for the Laydown box on my recently acquired 1956 Dommie99 as there seem to be conflicting references.
As acquired there was no free movement on the clutch lever and the adjuster on the gearbox was at its maximum extension. However, with the engine running clutch drag is very evident and clean gear changes impossible. I have read an earlier ES2 thread on this topic ( http://www.nortonownersclub.org/noc-chat/technical1-singles-forum/32690599#664821286) , where the problem seemed to be traced to a too short a clutch rod.
I stripped down my clutch and all parts seem sound other than there was an extra plain steel drive plate fitted on the outside, making SEVEN in all,plus the five friction plates. On removing the clutch rod it measures 7.62 inches (193.5mm) which is about 1/8inch short of the recommended length of 7.75 inches suggested by previous posters, although it looks as if it has always been that length as there are no signs of wear or misuse. By coincidence mine is exactly as that of the original ES2 owner who solved all his problems by cutting a length of silver steel to the required larger size.
My query however is that I see a replacement Laydown Clutch Rod, part no. E2/379, is available from the NOC shop but its length is quoted as 7.25 inches, even shorter than the one I already have fitted. RGM list an equivalent part no. A2/379 but quote the length as 9.75 inches, which canât be right !
Before simply cutting some silver steel to a length to make the clutch function correctly could anybody please first advise whether there was ever one, or perhaps two, steel balls originally fitted between the worm gear, clutch rod and mushroom. This would perhaps account for the discrepancy between the 7.25â rod listed in the NOC shop and the 7.75â length that seems to do the job ?
Also, can anyone suggest why an additional plain clutch plate might have been doubled up next to the outer cover on my Dommie?
Any advice appreciated.
Brgds,
Pete
