AJS & Matchless Owners Club

I am trying to fit a new gear indicator on my Model 8 but when I screw the bolt into the threaded hole in the end of the ratchet spindle, the spindle starts turning so the bolt doesn't go in very far. Am I missing something here? Is there an easy way to stop the spindle turning so I can tighten the bolt? Do I need a spacer?

Nope you need to strip the box to sort out the spindle, it should be solid.

Thanks for replying ajscomboman.

I have never worked on one of these boxes before so your advice is very welcome, even though I might have hoped for better news. Most of my somewhat rusty experience is in engines and brakes. I'm struggling to translate the drawings in the manual and parts list into a clear view of how the gearbox is put together. The only things I can see in the drawings that might hold the spindle in place are the thread on the end of the ratchet shaft and the ratchet shaft nut (041340). I don't know what the circlip at the inboard end of the shaft does, so may I ask what holds the spindle in place?

I've looked again at the end of the spindle and it is just possible to move it slightly in and out by screwing a bolt into the threaded hole and using it to apply pressure very slowly. During normal operation, it stays put. The gearbox is still working perfectly well.

I know nothing about Lightweights but there seems to be an excellent overhaul guide in the archives which may help you. See here:

http://archives.jampot.dk/technical/Tra ... erhaul.pdf

Some cutaway and exploded view drawings here:

http://archives.jampot.dk/technical/Cut ... _drawings/

Thanks SPRIDDLER, I'll take a look.