'00 426 notched clutch basket - options?

[banda]

Don't get mad at me for asking about '00 426 clutches - there's a lot of stuff in threads here already, and that's my problem - there's a little too much for me to digest.

So I know that there are some part swaps with '01 plates and rods that are popular. I know that aftermarket baskets for the '00 are non-existent.

My basket has notched fingers. I would like a lighter pull and smoother engagement.

I bought my bike used, and I don't know if the clutch parts are original.

How do I tell what I've got? Or does it matter? Should I get a '01-'02 basket and rod? Do I also need a new boss?

What are my options?

Thanks in advance for your help

[silentv311]

Just my opinion, I would stick to Factory OEM parts if you are not sure about parts exchange from later models or, purchase a Hinsen Clutch Basket designed for your year model and make. ?)

[383firebird]

I would file down and polish the fingers on your basket. I have done it and know others that have too with good results. Unless you wanna spend the money for new parts.

[banda]

I would file down and polish the fingers on your basket. I have done it and know others that have too with good results. Unless you wanna spend the money for new parts.

Well, heck, that makes sense.

Ok, so a follow-on question. If it's time for new clutch plates, how do I go about identifying whether I have a '00 clutch or a '01 clutch? Does it even matter for clutch plate replacement?

[383firebird]

if you look in the oem parts section and compare steels ,fibers and basket part #s they are they same for 00-02. i have always heard the 426 has a solid clutch and i have never had issues with oem parts.

[nsanerod]

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/pT762epzhv0GdOWGGV3ezdfZkIxlGYnfK4gZBK2GTcg?feat=directlink - You can see the grooves in the clutch basket. They look like little squares where the friction plates rub. You can also see the file I used.

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/eTXL0HwET9Q-L-N3JmlqftfZkIxlGYnfK4gZBK2GTcg?feat=directlink - Here is the "after" picture showing it smooth.

I had the same problem. I bought a used RMZ 450 and the clutch was grabby. I did some research and found the following advice:

-File off the basket to eliminate grooves.

I am no mechanic and I was able to do just this. Now, it is like butter! Pics show what I did. Keep in mind you have to remove the clutch basket. Be sure to clean everything before reinstall to get rid of metal shavings.

[banda]

Guys, thank you for pointing me in this direction. I will get in there with a file and let you know how it goes.

But - and I'm ashamed to say this - I replaced the clutch cable and lever, and thoroughly cleaned the clutch perch. The difference is like night and day. The lever action is buttery smooth, and the adjuster is a thousand times easier to operate. I think it could all be even better, so I'll get in there with the file and replace the plates, and I'll see what I get.

Thanks again.