Hi Tug, I had the same problem when fitting new plates to my AJS, and believe that if your springs are strong enough, your plates are all in good condition, and as Hugo mentioned...you don't end up with the final plain plate extending past the basket when clutch is operated (as mine did with too many plates) then the quantity of plates shouldn't make a difference.
Have just fitted new plates to my almost finished comet so should know soon if this concept also works on the Vin (greater horsepower of the Vin might make a difference though)
Good luck with it mate.
Kevin
p.s. The Comet clutch is so similar to my AJS clutch that they are interchangeable, being part of a Burman setup (which are used in many british bikes) I "think" the clutch/parts could be off any one of a long list of British bikes.