It's been a while since I've reported on progress with the DKW SB motorcycle so a recap is in order. I dropped my bike to some mechanic friends to sort out the carburetor and ignition issues back in November 2024. Those issues were quickly resolved, but like the proverbial loose thread on a jumper, other issues quickly unraveled. https://dkwautounionproject.blogspot.com/2024/11/1938-dkw-sb350-restoration-update.html
New tyres were obtained but when the guys removed the old tyres they found that the rims were completely rusted through from the inside. It was probably the rust that was holding them together. New rims were built from NOS stock rims and new spokes.
As the rims were new, they needed to be painted to look 'age appropriate.' They look great.
The guys managed to remove the old speedometer from its housing and install the new speedometer. Apparently there were some very tiny screws in the speedometer back holding it on. The original speedometer housing looks much better than the modern reproduction, which was not a match at all.
Next step was to start her up and take her for a test ride. The clutch proved to be barely functional. Well, after 80 years this is hardly a surprise. We pulled off the covers and took a look at the clutch.
Prewar DKW motorcycles used plates with cork plugs, approximately the same size as a cork bottle stop. Over time these decay and fall apart. As soon as we opened it up some cork plugs fell out.
This ring of cork plugs looks like it was original. All the plugs were consistently sized but blackened and inflexible. You can see some plugs are missing from the disc.
This ring of cork has been repaired / replaced at some point. Some cork plugs are original but replacements have been cut from square pieces of cork, probably from a cork bottle.
It's much more apparent in this disc. A little pressure on the plugs and they all came out easily enough. The metal plates were in good condition.
A new set of corks is on order. Below is a video showing how the cork is fitted.
This will be my next job!
After soaking the plates in petrol....
The cork arrived on 11 April 2025. It only took two weeks from Germany. Generally post from Germany takes 4-6 weeks, but it was a light package.
November 2024 update: https://dkwautounionproject.blogspot.com/2024/11/1938-dkw-sb350-restoration-update.html
