How To Install a Clutch Kit on a 2012 Husqvarna TE310
Shop parts for a 2012 Husqvarna TE310 Dirt Bike.Overview why replace the clutch on a TE310
The 2012 Husqvarna TE310 is a 310cc fourstroke enduro bike used for trail and competitive enduro riding. Its wet multiplate, cableoperated clutch takes heavy wear from steep starts, tight woods work and sand. Symptoms that point to a clutch kit replacement include slipping under load, dragging or grabbing, inconsistent lever feel, hard shifting or a clutch that requires excessive lever travel. Proper replacement restores throttle response, clean power transfer and predictable shift quality.
Tools & prep
- Basic hand tools metric sockets, ratchet, Allen keys, torque wrench optional (do not use specific numbers here)
- Clutch holding tool or a method to keep the basket from spinning
- Drain pan, fresh engine oil and oil filter (if you will drain oil)
- Clean rags, gasket or RTV if applicable, small brush and fresh clutch oil
- Replacement clutch kit sized for the 2012 TE310
Prepare the bike
Park the TE310 on a level stand and let the engine cool. If the clutch cover sits in the engine oil path on your model, drain enough oil so the cover can be removed cleanly; for many TE310s the wet clutch is bathed so prepare for some oil loss and have clean cloths ready. Disconnect the clutch cable at the lever to relieve tension, then remove any plastics or skid plates blocking access to the clutch cover.
Removing the clutch cover & inner components
Clean the exterior of the clutch cover to prevent dirt entering the case. Remove the clutch cover bolts in a cross pattern and gently pry the cover free. Note gasket condition and clean gasket surfaces. With the cover off, you'll see the pressure plate held by spring bolts. Loosen the clutch spring bolts evenly, a few turns at a time, working across the plate to release pressure uniformly this prevents binding and damage.
Take out plates, inspect hardware
Remove the pressure plate, clutch springs and individual friction & steel drive plates. Keep the plates in order as you remove them so you can confirm correct stacking later. Inspect each friction plate for glazing, thinning, burnt surface or contaminated oil residue. Lay steel plates flat and check for heat discoloration or warping by sighting across their surface. Examine the clutch basket fingers for notching or grooves where the plates engage notched fingers cause chatter and accelerated wear. Spin and inspect the inner clutch hub splines for burrs or rounding. Check the thrust washer and pushrod for scoring and correct seating. Verify clutch spring free length visually if springs look compressed or uneven, replace them with the kit springs.
Deciding whether to replace the basket or hub
If basket fingers show deep notches or the hub splines are significantly worn, plan to replace those parts. Minor wear can sometimes be smoothed with a file, but for reliable engagement on a TE310 used hard offroad, replacement is the safer choice.
Preparing new plates
Because the TE310 uses a wet multiplate clutch, soak new friction plates in fresh engine oil for at least 15-30 minutes before installation. This prevents initial slippage and helps breakin. Steel drive plates do not need soaking but should be wiped clean of any packaging contaminants.
Reassembling the clutch pack
Reinstall plates in the original order typically alternating friction plate, steel plate until the stack is complete. Ensure each friction plate seats fully into the basket slots and that steel plates seat on the hub. Press the pressure plate into place and reinstall new or inspected springs and spring bolts. Tighten spring bolts gradually and evenly in a crisscross pattern until snug. Do not overtighten; secure them so the pressure plate is seated straight and the spring cups are evenly compressed.
Reinstall clutch cover, refill oil
Clean the clutch cover mating surface and install a new gasket or use the correct sealant where required. Reinstall the cover and handstarter bolts to align the gasket, then snug bolts in a cross pattern. Refill the engine with the recommended oil for your TE310 and install a fresh oil filter if you removed one or if the project required draining all oil. Wipe any spills and cycle the engine briefly to check for leaks.
Cable adjustment & lever feel
Reconnect the clutch cable and set free play at the lever a small amount of free play prevents constant partial engagement. Inspect the cable for binding or kinks that could mimic clutch wear; replace the cable if it feels rough. If your TE310's clutch has any selfadjusting features, verify they operate smoothly during lever actuation. Pull the lever a few times to seat the plates and confirm consistent, firm feel across the lever pull.
Breakin and test riding
On first startup, let the engine idle and cycle the clutch while stationary to ensure proper engagement. Take a lowspeed shakedown ride using gentle throttle inputs for the first 10-20 miles to allow plates to bed in evenly. Pay attention to engagement point, slipping under load, and shift quality. If the lever feels spongy or engagement is inconsistent, recheck cable routing and free play; bleeding is not applicable for the cable system.
Maintenance tips specific to a 310 enduro
- Aggressive starts and frequent lowspeed trail maneuvers speed wear on a TE310 clutch inspect plates more often if you ride sand, mud or tight woods.
- Use the correct oil viscosity and change intervals for enduro use to reduce clutch glazing and heat buildup.
- After heavy heat exposure or long hard rides, check for warped steels and discoloration that indicate overheating.
Final checks
Confirm there are no oil leaks, that the clutch lever has the expected free play and that gear shifts are crisp. A properly installed clutch kit on the 2012 Husqvarna TE310 will restore responsive throttle feel, reliable power transfer and smoother shifting so you can focus on riding hard without clutch uncertainty.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Clutch Kits for a 2012 Husqvarna TE310 Dirt Bike.
Shop Clutch Baskets for a 2012 Husqvarna TE310 Dirt Bike.
Shop Clutch Springs for a 2012 Husqvarna TE310 Dirt Bike.
Shop Inner Hubs and Pressure Plates for a 2012 Husqvarna TE310 Dirt Bike.
Shop Clutch Covers for a 2012 Husqvarna TE310 Dirt Bike.
Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.
