Mitch... Back in the day the early A7 was the firm favourite choice for the sidecar market, and a robust clutch was the requirement. Then no doubt the cost accountants got in on the act and the infamous pressed steel centre type first used on Pre War low power bikes found another model range to curse. This clutch was BSA's version of "One type fits all" as with variations to the clutch and chainwheel depths and the number of plates used it was found on A,B,M and C Ranges. All the bits interchange, so care is needed when selecting parts, ebay is a minefield, the smaller C type centres often offered as "BSA A7, A10, Gold Star....." WRONG!! Same goes for pressure plates which come in various degrees of "dishing". Usual sign of something wrong is that the basket will not take the number of plates the part list says it should.
Devlin. That big nut on the end of the crank is tightened to a gut busting 65 Ft/LBs. On the early A7 there should be no end float, so if the crank turns, best left alone for now. The rusted cush drive will free off with use, so a good dose of WD will also do for now. That clutch thrust washer pulls straight off, revealing a split collar on the mainshaft, framed there by Minto. It's essential that this collar is correctly fitted and in good order. It supports the thrust washer, clutch centre and retaining nut. Say hello to the oilseal behind the collar, and welcome it to the world with a dab of grease.....original type is a compressed fabric and resin concoction, which does the job. The whole engine and gearbox are built around this seal, so if it ain't broke.....
Swarfy
Thanks Jase, nice Pix. Note that the previous owner had fitted Minto's cush with the later Swing Arm flat faced cush nut. When tightened down this nut locks the Plunger cush drive solid. Nut and sleeve used on Rigid and Plunger models are different from S/A type. Thread's the same, and this was part of Minto's conundrum...fitted fine, but did not work.
