Moteobecane 50v variator...should engage engine?

Chad /

Jun 21, 2008 09:29PM

Hello, first post here, trying to resurrect a 1978 Motobecane 50v. I've fixed seized cabling and rust-filled fuel system, went to make first start attempt, but the engine doesn't turn while pedalling. The "disconnect" on the pedal pulley is in the proper position, and drive belt spins the "outer hub" for the variator, but the internal clutch doesn't spin the engine, totally diconnected no matter how fast i pedal.

How can engine spin while pedalling if the clutch isn't engaging?...I really only have a moderate knowledge of theory of operation of this system, and need help getting the engine to spin while pedalling....and oh, I don't have a puller to yank it off and inspect.

Re: Moteobecane 50v variator...should engage engin

MadisonMed /

madisonmed

Jun 21, 2008 09:35PM

You may want to toss this post up under repair.

But Heres my thoughts, I had this problem today. Your clutch isn't engaging or it isn't gripping the drum well. Either there is oil/grease in the drum causing it to slip or the clutch is damaged/broken. If its just oil/grease in the drum you can usually get by with spraying carb/brake cleaner in there and letting the drippings run out. This will allow you to grip and then start, probably have to do this a few times. If that doesn't work you need to take the cover of the end of variator and inspect the clutch. I think you need a puller to do this and I haven't been able to do it yet, so good luck.

Re: Moteobecane 50v variator...should engage engin

Chad /

cityevader OP

Jun 21, 2008 09:53PM

Right on, didn't post under repair since I wasn't sure how it was supposed to operate, and if I was simply doing something wrong. I can hear something clunking inside each time it is rotated back and forth, so can I assume a spring is broken or something like that? I'll try to get a puller. Anyone know where to get one? Anybody local to Santa Cruz, CA want to rent me one?

Re: Moteobecane 50v variator...should engage engin

Bert /

laxfan25

Jun 22, 2008 08:20PM

Do you know about the decompression lever? If not, you need to learn more about Mobys.

Re: Moteobecane 50v variator...should engage engin

Crackstar X /

crackstar

Jun 22, 2008 09:41PM

Don't use carb cleaner. Use brake cleaner, carb cleaner contains lubricants, brake kleen will leave parts grease and oil slippery stuff free, plus it has a higher pressure spray good for getting greasy stuff out of hard to reach areas.

other areas to check are your belt, a loose belt will slip as soon as the starter clutches try to engage.

Re: Moteobecane 50v variator...should engage engin

keller_stephen /

keller_stephen

Jun 23, 2008 01:12AM

I think I have a clutch puller e-mail me

Re: Moteobecane 50v variator...should engage engin

Bort Hoff /

Go to branch

bret

Jun 23, 2008 01:25AM

it's more likely that the belt is slipping or your decompression isn't working. But i've seen plenty of seized rusty clutches in my day too, just start with the simple stuff.

Re: Moteobecane 50v variator...should engage engin

cityevader /

cityevader OP

Jun 24, 2008 09:36AM

I agree I need to learn about this thing first as mentioned about, however, I also have a strong sense of logic. Seeing the belt spinning up the front pulley that it rides on, without spinning up the "clutch housing" where the puller would thread into, and that the right side of engine/flywheel doesn't spin, it 's clearly not a decompression lever issue.

Re: Moteobecane 50v variator...should engage engin

cityevader /

cityevader OP

Jun 25, 2008 01:50PM

I tried emailing you about the puller, but not sure if it worked. Maybe try emailing me?

cityevader8@yahoo.com

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