OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Restoring, Customising and Modifying Reel-Type Mowers SB45 rattling noise and clutch struggle??

Hi, unlucky time half way through mowing today.
The SB45 started to make a rattling noise from the cutting reel and occasionally the clutch looked like it was struggling to keep the reel rotating. I double checked the reel contact on the sole blade and it was fine but still had dramas. Not sure if this could be signs of clutch on its way out???

Any advice???

It seems to be moreso noticed under load that it struggles to keep the reel spinning

Another thing that was weird was that when i first started up the mower and increased the revs, the clutch engaged by itself. Seems to me it must be the clutch, just want to be check with others advice

Just pulled the clutch apart and noticed the clutch cork split, i am thinking this wouldve been causing this???

Photos are a much better way to decipher problems like this.

Cheers,
BB.

As Requested.

Hi Mb,

Am I correct in saying that the cork had totally separated and was no longer bonded to the metal of the clutch body ring when you pulled the clutch body apart ?

If I'm correct the cork would be spinning inside the clutch body but gripping the drive cone thus chattering and having no grip when put under load.

Cheers,
BB.

Hi Bonnar_Bloke,

Thanks for helping out with this.

Yes when i first inspected it late last night, the cork was completed separated from the clutch body with a small section already cut (as seen in the pic).
Its the first time I have explored into these clutches and now understand that it maybe best if i purchase a new clutch cork and glue it back to the clutch body, is this correct?
I am also going to replace the thrust spring.

Before i pulled it apart, i noticed that i could easily spin the shaft from the engine while holding the cutting shaft (on the other end) whilst engaged and noticed there was no grip onto this cutting shaft, i am guessing this was not good??

Up until i noticed this yesterday, there were no signs of the clutch slipping or anything to think that this cork would of been damaged... quite impressed it lasted this long

Yes well that's your issue. Just purchase another cork lining and glue it in with 5 Minute Araldite as this will give you time to maneuver it into place and won't ever let go again.

Not sure why you'd be replacing that spring as I can't see that being necessary.

Cheers,
BB.

The spring is only a few dollars and rather replace whilst everything is apart. Will replace the cork and see how i go. Thanks

Those springs never ever require replacement, unless they are lost during disassembly. You're just wasting your hard earned cash there.

Buy a couple of thrust pads instead to keep on hand.

Cheers,
BB.

Thanks very much Bonnar_Bloke, appreciate the advice. Will do