Norton Model 18 kickstart

[Tim.S]

Hi, this is my first post so hello all, I have several classic bikes, but I've just dug out my 1939 Norton Model 18 and started it up after a few years of inactivity and then remembered why I haven't used it for a while, when its running the kickstart lever falls to the floor but its fine when it not running. I've replaced the spring and re-tensioned it on the shaft, but its still no good. Any ideas anyone? Thanks in advance, Tim.

[R]

This is usually connected with either a layshaft bearing on its way out (more a Commando problem though) or a bush in 1st gear working its way out and rubbing on the kickstart thingy. Only cure is to go inside the gearbox endcover and examine the bits in close proximity to the kickstarter...

Also worth checking the oil level, if its dry it may do the same !
And checking the oil drained out for metal bits....

[chaterlea25]

HI Tim,
Worn bushes/ bearings in the box or lack of oil in there will cause the problem, sometimes I have found these gearboxes filled with heavy grease, this will not penetrate along the bush inside the kickstart shaft and it can run dry and swing the kickstart back 
HTH
John

[Tim.S]

Thanks  for that, at least I know what to aim for now.
Tim.