1978 Garelli VIP clutch won't disengage

Enzo Swoop /

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May 31, 2011 09:09PM

I picked up a vip a few weeks ago and finally got around to messing with it, but the main issues i have is that the clutch is not disengaging, meaning i have to pop start it every time if i want to get moving.

I took apart the transmission today and instead of finding the issue i thought it was, I found nothing missing or broken, everything looked in tip top shape.

I put everything back together and started her up, put the back tire to my drive way, and it stalled again. I decided, fuck it, and got a running start on my street, and finally got it going. the only problem is the clutch won't disengage.

Has anyone else had this problem, if so, how do i correct it. Also, does anyone know the compression a VIP engine should have? I'm positive I have an airleak somewhere because the thing barely moved after i got it going.

Re: 1978 Garelli VIP clutch won't disengage

Borg Resistance /

boxthorn

May 31, 2011 09:39PM

I've heard somewhere that the Garelli clutch rubber thingies are notorious to melt up and screw the clutch. Perhaps you could check on that.

Re: 1978 Garelli VIP clutch won't disengage

Enzo Swoop /

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enzo OP

May 31, 2011 09:44PM

That's what i originally thought, and when i opened it up today, there piece is different, and checking the manuals they have up on the wiki, i found out that those are on the one speeds, and the VIPs have a two speed, which has a different looking piece.

Re: 1978 Garelli VIP clutch won't disengage

Enzo Swoop /

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enzo OP

Jun 01, 2011 07:51AM

no one has any other input?

Re: 1978 Garelli VIP clutch won't disengage

Brian Caputo /

rideronthestorm

Jun 01, 2011 10:43AM

I'm just curious because I am new here, what a non-disengaging clutch "feels like?" Basically you can't come to a stop or the vehicle dies?

Re: 1978 Garelli VIP clutch won't disengage

Enzo Swoop /

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enzo OP

Jun 01, 2011 01:21PM

yep, that's exactly what happens, I have to go go go if i want the engine to keep running, it konks out after i slow down enough to the point where it's cruising. Also, when i roll it backwards the clutch catches, which is a total sign of something not being right on it.

Re: 1978 Garelli VIP clutch won't disengage

Rob K /

flashy65

Jun 01, 2011 02:29PM

You have accurately described an over swollen first gear friction rubber. This happens when petroleum water or other incorrect lubes break down the rubber. If you are resourceful you can take this out (it's the center one that's smaller) and sand 1/8" of material from the outer edge on a drill press sanding drum. I suggest using a full synthetic motor oil when refilling the reservoir.

There was a guy on eBay selling new ones a while ago. They come as a set.

Re: 1978 Garelli VIP clutch won't disengage

Enzo Swoop /

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enzo OP

Jun 01, 2011 03:04PM

Yeah, i just emailed benji at treats about price matching the set to the one at 77s, but i may try the sanding down of it as an hold me over until the parts show up, and i may possibly give myself another little treat from treats while i'm at it..

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