Screeching clutch

I have done about 300 miles since replacing the Barnett friction plates with new ones. Everything seemed OK but on my last outing the clutch started making a very audible screeching noise every time I start off and begin engaging the clutch. Once on the move gearchanges are OK and there is no slipping or grabbing. The only thing I can think of is that maybe some grit has got in through the ginormous venting holes in the primary case (belt drive). Has anyone else experienced this problem?

just a guess, did you lube the barnett friction plates a little prior to installation?

Barnette does say to do this, I did not when I got their new ones and sure enough it screeched.

if not take your plates out and lube em a bit

this would also explain why it happens while slipping the clutch in first gear and not the others

The last two sets I have used up screeched a bit too, lube or not. A good helmet helps. Jim

I was of the understanding that the recommendation to lube the plates was only when they were to be used in a 'wet' application i.e. enclosed case with oil, but if to be used dry then they were installed dry. I suppose I could wipe them with an oily rag but then this would make them more amenable to picking up grit.

Call Barnett and they will tell ya to wet down then rag off ATF on new plates install to prevent chatter screech ridging on initial bedding in...
http://www.barnettclutches.com/