turns out it was the starter pinion, still, it would have made a mess of the clutch if that had let go
I got the official Yam tool for £12 delivered
still stumped why the plates are loose as I have put everything back as it should only replacing the thrust plate, and bearings which should tighten everything up if anything
no 5 on this schematic
the only caveat i can see is when I put the plate in, it is splined, then it was plain shaft that it sat on and was loose because of it. as though the clutch basket should be further out (which would take the slack up no doubt)
I have had to replace the cover as needed to move the bike, but i also need new clutch springs anyway as they are 40.38mm and min thickness is 41.5mm. So its a case of waiting till the new parts arrive before i get back into it again!
anyone have a picture of the rear clutch basket? maybe i installed the oil pump drive gear backwards although all indicators say its right