Drive clutch problem?

[carguybill]

I recently installed a new drive belt on my 1997 Carryall II DS - FE#290 and now I'm having to speed up the engine RPM's to get the clutch to engage and when it does engage it does so with a bang. I had a similar situation in the past when in reverse but now both directions.

It feels to me like the drive clutch is not engaging smoothly. Do others agree or disagree?

If it is the clutch can they be successfully rebuilt? I hope so, because I really don't want to spend $337 for a new clutch.

CarguyBill,
Coshocton, OH

[Springbok]

You're sure it's the drive clutch? Can you replicate the issue in maintenance mode with the cart in neutral (lifting the seat and watching it).

Yes, you can get a rebuild kit for the drive clutch I believe (new buttons,etc.). They come apart pretty easily.

[BigBlockMan]

You said you just change belts, Did it do this with the old belt?

The clutch slides on three plastic buttons, They need replaced ever now and again. That would make it not shift smooth.

[carguybill]

I did just replace the belt and now, after using it for a while, the problem has lessened. Perhaps the new belt just needed a short break in period.\

Thanks for the responses guys. If the problem continues, or worsens, I will pull the clutch and have a look inside for gremlins or whatever.

Carguy Bill

[Fairtax4me]

Sounds like the drive clutch is sticking. You can try blowing it out with compressed air. Sometimes that helps for a little while. They can be rebuilt, its not that difficult, but you need a clutch puller to get it off of the engine, and then you need a puller to remove the clutch hub to access the parts inside. Costs around $150 for all the parts to rebuild it. Only takes about an hour if you're mechanically savvy.