Clutch judder (when hot)

[winger300]

I've had the age-old clutch judder problem for a couple of years. It started when I attempted a reverse up a steep hill, and since then its been getting progressively worse in reverse, and a little in first.

Now first is more juddery than I can live with.

I've checked the usual candidates, top-steady bar, gearbox steady cable, mounts and rear springs are all in top condition.

The odd thing is that when the engine is cold it drives fine. No judder at all in reverse or 1st, but after 10-15 minutes of driving the judder presents itself.

Also, this clutch has always made a metal tinkling sound when the pedal is partially down, but goes away if I push the pedal to the floor. Any ideas what that could be?

Anyway, I have a replacement clutch, but just wan't to be sure that is 90% certain to solve the problem before paying my local garage to do the work (too cold to do myself this winter).

[bmcecosse]

Sounds like oil on clutch plate - is there oil dripping out the base of the bell housing ? You could try 'burning it off' - open space - car in 4th gear - handbrake firmly ON - rev up and lift your foot straight off the clutch. If it slips furiously then it needs changing anway - if slips slightly then stalls - it may just clean up the faces enough to keep you going for a while.

[winger300]

Thanks, I tried that and it seems to have done the trick, it's now very smooth.

[bmcecosse]

Kill or cure remedy!