Barnett Plates

[koko64]

I recently contacted Barnett regarding the manufactured tolerances on their dry clutch plate kit 306-25-40002. The kit came with nice and light alloy friction plates, the red friction material and light steel drive plates. The weight loss compared to the stock plates was considerable. I have Barnett clutch springs which hook up well and Barnett spring retainers and stainless bolts. I have been happy with the plates performance, price and longevity. I have used Barnett parts for many years in my motorcycles and been a happy customer.

There is only one issue however with the most recent plate kit mentioned above. The friction plate tangs have more clearance in the clutch basket grooves than the stock plates. I am talking about comparing new and unused parts. This was the case with both a Vee Two and nearly new stock basket stock basket. I tried them with both baskets to see for myself. The difference was considerable and created a lot more slop and noise at idle than the stock plates. I don't remember previous kits I have used being like that. My concern was that this greater gap between basket slots and friction plate tangs will accelerate the wear on those parts with the slop getting worse over time. This indeed was the case.

I fitted them with the Aussie attitude of "She'll be right mate" which translates to "Don't worry they'll be fine".

I saw another Barnett kit (identical) recently fitted to another bike and it had much closer tolerances. Since the other Barnett kits I have used did not have this loose fit I guessed that it was a case of a production batch being like that.

I contacted Barnett but have not had a reply as yet. I will resend my email. The next kit I buy will be carefully measured.
Has anyone else had this issue?

[Travman]

I recently installed Barnett plates.  I didn't notice the size or fit of the tangs, but the clutch noise sounded like other plates I've used.

[koko64]

I have received a reply from Barnett.
The specs of the plates provided did not match mine by a mile (out by 1-2mm)!
Beware, as according to Barnett, there were pirate plate kits getting around at the time I purchased mine (2 yrs ago).
I have used Barnett plates for a long time and been happy with them and was quite surprised by this.
I have accepted Barnetts explanation regarding pirate copies.

Cheers.