Market Position:
A comprehensive workshop manual for owners and mechanics of classic British motorcycles, specifically the popular Matchless 350cc models of the late 1950s and early 1960s, catering to both DIY enthusiasts and professional workshops.
Competitive Analysis:
This manual competes with other period-specific workshop manuals for British motorcycles, offering a detailed resource for a specific displacement and marque known for its robustness and classic appeal. Its digital format and instant availability are key advantages over older, physical manuals.
Key Features:
Instant download, printable pages, comprehensive coverage of multiple model years, detailed step-by-step procedures, extensive illustrations and diagrams, focus on accurate specifications, troubleshooting guidance, and safety precautions.
Engine Systems:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, tuning, lubrication, cooling system (if applicable to the specific 350cc variant), ignition system, fuel system (carburetor adjustment/rebuild).
Transmission Systems:
Gearbox (likely a 4-speed or 5-speed unit), clutch operation, maintenance, and repair.
Chassis Systems:
Frame inspection and repair, suspension (front fork – possibly leading link or telescopic, rear swing arm), wheel bearing maintenance, steering system.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brake systems (likely drum brakes), adjustment, maintenance, and repair.
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fuel tank, seat, fenders, controls (handlebars, levers, pedals), exhaust system.
Electrical Systems:
Lighting system (headlight, taillight, indicators), charging system (generator/alternator, regulator), battery, wiring diagrams, ignition coil, spark plug.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, general lubrication.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, gearbox overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system service, electrical component repair, carburetor tuning, clutch adjustment.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Diagnosis of common problems, fault finding, and corrective actions for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor mixture and idle speed, ignition timing, valve clearances, clutch and brake lever free play, suspension settings.
Installation Removal:
Detailed steps for removing and installing major components and sub-assemblies.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds. Includes detailed explanations, pictorial diagrams, and exploded views.
Diagram Quality:
High quality with pictorial diagrams, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photos.
Special Tools:
References special service tool numbers and depicts their usage where necessary.
Specifications:
Includes service data, specifications, tightening torques, wear limits, and allowable limits.
Engine Type:
350 cc, single-cylinder, four-stroke, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Bore Stroke:
Specific bore and stroke will vary slightly by exact model (e.g., G3LC, G3LS), but typical for 350cc Matchless would be around 66mm bore x 99mm stroke.
Compression Ratio:
Likely in the range of 6.5:1 to 7.5:1, depending on the specific model variant (LC = Low Compression, LS = Low Compression Swingarm, etc.).
Horsepower:
Estimated 18-22 bhp at around 5000-5500 rpm.
Torque:
Specific torque figures not readily available without detailed spec sheets, but characteristic of a classic British single, providing good low-to-mid range grunt.
Carburetor:
Typically fitted with a single Amal carburetor (e.g., Amal Monobloc, concentric). Specific model number varies.
Fuel Type:
Historically, these bikes ran on leaded gasoline. Modern equivalents or additives may be recommended depending on engine condition and materials.
Oil System:
Integrated oil tank or separate oil tank system, depending on the specific 'Heavyweight' designation. Likely uses a drip-feed or splash lubrication system for some components.
Transmission Type:
Manual, constant-mesh gearbox
Number Of Gears:
Typically 4-speed or 5-speed.
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate clutch, operated by cable.
Optional Gearbox:
N/A (Standard configuration for this model range)
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios would be detailed within the manual, crucial for performance tuning and rebuilding.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 54-56 inches (137-142 cm), subject to specific model variant.
Dry Weight:
Around 360-400 lbs (163-181 kg), depending on specific model features (e.g., presence of electrics, plunger frame vs. swingarm).
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Not explicitly stated, but would include rider and passenger weight in addition to dry weight.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 1,500-2,000 miles or annually, with more frequent checks recommended for heavy use. Specific interval detailed in manual.
Tune Up Interval:
Regularly recommended, including spark plug check/replacement, ignition timing adjustment, and carburetor tuning, often every 3,000-5,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
For the era, a monograde oil like SAE 20W50 or SAE 30 was common. Modern equivalents often include additives for classic engines. Specific recommendations provided in manual.
Gearbox Oil Type:
Typically a heavier gear oil or motorcycle-specific transmission fluid. Specific grade detailed in manual.
Fork Oil Type:
Specific grade of hydraulic fork oil, usually a light to medium weight. Volume and type detailed in manual.
Known Issues:
Typical classic motorcycle issues include: oil leaks (especially from the primary drive cover and engine casings), carburetor tuning sensitivity, worn valve guides, timing chain wear, electrical component failures (e.g., dynamo, regulator), and wear in the clutch and gearbox components. The manual addresses these through specific procedures and checks.
Parts Recommendations:
Manual emphasizes using correct OEM fasteners and components. Recommends genuine Matchless parts where available, and specifies part numbers for many wear items.
Brand Heritage:
Matchless Motorcycles was a prominent British manufacturer, known for robust and reliable motorcycles. Established in 1899, they produced a wide range of models throughout the 20th century, often competing in trials and road racing.
Model Evolution:
The Heavyweight 350cc models represent a progression of Matchless's popular single-cylinder offerings, evolving from earlier designs to incorporate advancements like swingarm rear suspension and improved engine lubrication. The 'Heavyweight' designation typically refers to their more robustly built singles.
Production Period:
1957-1966
Manufacturing Location:
United Kingdom (likely Plumstead, London)
