340 cyclone clutch

jdriderinny · Post by **jdriderinny** » Sat Dec 31, 2005 6:35 pm

since we have no snow down here i figured i would have the clutch on my 340 check out. one problem, nobody down here knows anything about john deere clutches and really doesnt want to mess with it. there is a squeeling when the motor idles and i can move the can on the end of the clutch about an 1/8 of inch back and forth. i hope it is not ruined. i am waiting to get the right belt for it and that may take care of squeelling but if anyone can tell me how to service this clutch i would appreciate it . it hasnt had anything done to it in 3 years or so. it doesnt seem to slip or bog at all now but i dont want to ruin it and have to buy a new whole clutch

harleysportster · Post by **harleysportster** » Sat Dec 31, 2005 9:28 pm

jdriderinny,
The primary clutch on your 340 cyclone is a Comet 102-C. This is a common clutch for vintage snowmobiles. You need to find a "old timer sled mechanic" , he will know the clutch. To inspect the clutch, you need to remove it from the crankshaft using the proper clutch puller. Remove 3 of the 6 bolts( every other 1 ) holding the outer bushing / can. Then remove the rest of the bolts evenly. Keep in mind the outer bushing housing is under pressure from the primary spring. Push down on the housing while removing the bolts. Once the bolts are out, remove the spring and inspect for loose bushings, free operation of the weights. Over time, the weight bushing / pin will wear out causing the weights to rub on the inside of the spider housing. If so, a new weight kit is in order. With the spring removed, install the outer bushing plate and check the bushing fittness to the inner clutch shaft. If it is sloppy, a new outer plate is in order. (This may be the movement that you have found) The guide buttons also wear out, which requires removal of the spider with the proper tools, to replace the guide buttons.
When you put the clutch back together, do not install the can. The can was eliminated soon after your sled was new, which allows the clutch to cool better.

jdriderinny · Post by **jdriderinny** » Mon Jan 02, 2006 9:16 am

thanks for the help, you guys dont know how much this site has helped me.plesae keep up the good work and maybe someday we will get to ride these things. does anybody know of anybody in western new york that works on john deeres and has parts for them. this clutch sounds like more than i can handle.im about 45 minites southwest of rochester and an hour southeast of buffalo