Clutch spin in 3rd and 4th gear... any suggestions?

[mrshannon]

New today! Accelerating in 3rd 4th appears to make the engine rev but speed stays pretty much the same. It seems fine in 1st and 2nd but beyond that i just get revs!

I'm thinking that means a clutch replacement? Any ideas welcome...

[moggles]

Presume you've checked you've got the specified free play on the clutch adjustment? If it is going to slip, it will always tend to slip in the higher gears because of the higher torque load.

[MarkyB]

As above really, except if there is some play on the linkage, and it still slips, it's knackered and need to be replaced.

[bmcecosse]

As above - adjust to get some free play. Also have a look - is any oil coming out the jiggle pin hole in the bell housing?
To change clutch I would pull the engine out - much easier than grappling with the gearbox under the car!

[mrshannon]

Put 2 or 3 turns on the adjuster and seems to have done the trick! No more spin in 3rd and 4th...

Are there any dangers of tightening too far? The pedal feels a little different to last time but it could just be that it's actually i a better position...

[bmcecosse]

You MUST have some free play at the pedal - is there any ?

[mrshannon]

Yeah there's free play at the pedal. I'd guess at about 30mm maybe but I'd have to measure it to be accurate.

[bmcecosse]

And that's not just 'slop' in the pedal mount ? The rod and lever system must be 'loose' (and held back by the return spring) or the carbon thrust will be running against the pressure pad and the clutch will be partially disengaged - leading to slipping and a burned out clutch plate.....