stiff clutch

Post by **Peetee** » Sat May 24, 2008 9:27 pm

When I take Albert out the clutch seems fine. Over the space of an hour though and it progressively becomes much harder to operate. This has happened a few times now.
Anyone got any ideas?

Post by **d_harris** » Sat May 24, 2008 9:47 pm

Which clutch have you got fitted Pete?

Post by **Peetee** » Sun May 25, 2008 8:52 am

Same as was on Joemog which never was a problem. I know the Midget clutch is heavier if that's what your thinking but even if that's what the engine came with it doesn't explain why it gets worse the more you drive it then is fine the next day.
Some of the problem is the pedal spindle as I can feel that in the brake operation too.
It's worth saying too that it seems to get heavier and stiffer too with a rough, inconsistant operation through the travel of the pedal.

Post by **bmcecosse** » Sun May 25, 2008 10:34 am

Sounds like seizing up pedals - add oil!

Post by **Peetee** » Sun May 25, 2008 4:24 pm

Sounds like seizing up pedals - add oil

I'm sure that has something to do with it but why would it feel better the next day?

Post by **Bazzalucas** » Sun May 25, 2008 6:37 pm

Only guess is friction=heat=expanding metal?

Post by **Peetee** » Sun May 25, 2008 11:10 pm

Only guess is friction=heat=expanding metal?

Hmmm

Relay shaft alignment?

Also might be worth mentioning that the judder in reverse has never been so bad and there was a bit of judder taking up 1st sometimes too.

Post by **bmcecosse** » Mon May 26, 2008 5:30 am

Judder = misalignment/centre plate warped/poor engine or box mounts and/or poor steady bar - but can't see how related to 'stiff' action. Although if the mech is tight it obviously lessens your ability to engage the clutch smoothly. Apply oil to the pedals and mech.

Post by **kennatt** » Mon May 26, 2008 7:37 am

sounds like something expanding with heat transfer from engine since its fine when cold.Only thing I can think of which would cause it would be the clutch plate.Maybe the springs /vanes in the plate stiffening up as they get hot(Don't know why they should though)If it is really stiff I would be a bit worried that the extra pressure needed to work the clutch would be putting too much forwards strain on the crank thrust faces.Not a good thing to do . If it is this I would get someone to operate the clutch when stiff and I would watch the bottom pully.If you can see the pully being pushed forwards beyond a reasonable tollerence then you need to consider changing the plate as a matter of urgency,if it damages the thrust faces you will be into major rebuilding . Good luck