Clutch problems

[SUE482]

Well major problem with the clutch/thrust etc. As you can see from my posts on restoration all new parts including clutch, thrust, linkages, bearing etc. and only having run the engine less than 30mins the disengagement of the clutch has got worse and worse by the second. Now most of the clutch adjustment has been taken up, so much so it’s nearly impossible to get in gear. By my reckoning it must be the new clutch thrust plate which is giving up, I have heard several deflamatory remarks about new clutch kits so I am a bit ******** off as it means the engine and gearbox will have to come out again. If it is what I suspect I wonder if I can claim compensation from the manufactures.

[lambrettalad]

hi I know your totally pi****ed off but please be specific about the symptoms ,to help us help you

[Greengrass]

DO NOT GIVE UP YET
The lads on here are clever with there help i got mine sorted mine was a B&B and ive heard all sorts about them check all the links between the gearbox im sure you will sort it out

[SUE482]

Thanks for the encouragement and advice but to reiterate, after renewal of all parts with the correct pedal adjustment everything was fine but after only a few minutes of operation gradual deterioration in clutch disengagement started to occur, difficult to engage gear without crashing the box. Further adjustment rectified the situation but then gradually got worse again. Now the only thing I can see is that it's probably the thrust plate on the clutch or something to do with the thrust bearing and the internal clutch withdrawal leaver. I have checked all the new external bushes rods and pins associated with the relay shaft and that is OK. If anyone could come up with a better explanation I would more than happy.

[LouiseM]

Some members have had some problems recently with pressure plate springs:

http://www.mmoc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=48948

http://www.mmoc.org.uk/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=49501

[bmcecosse]

Can only think that the springs are collapsing - not properly tempered. And I suspect the manufacturers will be in China - not easy to get compen there I suspect.... I would look for a good OLD clutch . What happened to the old one off the engine? Re-use it if you can!

[mike.perry]

I agree with the comments above. There is no need to change the pressure plate unless it is faulty, a good pressure plate will outlast several drive plates and thrust bearings.

[Chris Edgar]

A big piece of the graphite broke off the release bearing on mine, so it was a case of a new one PDQ.
Is it possible to take the rubber "bung" off the side of the bell housing & peep inside..you may be able to see a problem.

[SUE482]

Thanks for all the info and advice I'll keep you updated when I get the lump out and have a gander.

[SUE482]

OK then I've picked my dummy up of the floor and now I am ready to rectify the clutch failure.
I have only ever removed the engine complete with gearbox so just taking the engine out will be a new experience, therefore any tips which I might need would be most welcome. I have an engine hoist so what is the procedure apart from the obvious, I have read various posts on the subject but advice is a wonderful thing.

[David W.]

I've replaced transmissions 4 times, always from underneath by drawing the tranny down and to the rear. That's the way the maintenance manual shows. Last time I did it, I had it out about two hours after I rolled back the carpet.
It seems to me that pulling the engine would be much more complicated.

[bmcecosse]

Not at all - engine is MUCH easier - and only needs to slide forward on a trolley jack to get at the clutch. And no 'unsafe' struggling under a possibly poorly supported car.......

[SUE482]

Roy, obviously the rad comes out but is there enough room if I leave the front of the car on.

[SUE482]

Roy, obviously the rad comes out but is there enough room if I leave the front of the car on.

[bmcecosse]

Yes - maybe take the fan blade off to avoid damage.

[David W.]

SUE482,
Post pictures of the engine moved forward. I'd like to see how far it moves, and what kind of access there is at the clutch. I can't visualize the room you have for the pilot shaft, or working with the release lever etc.

[bmcecosse]

Oh there's not a lot of room - but it can be done. Wrestling under with the prop-shaft/clutch levers/gearbox mounts/gearbox weight/steering rack in the way... is no fun at all - been there done that - once........

[David W.]

OK, I hope there isn't a next time, but I'll try it your way if there is.

[SUE482]

David will take some pics for you, should have it out tomorrow, since I have a hoist I may very well take it out completely.
Ian

[David W.]

Thanks, I think a lot of us would like to see the pix.
Pause when you have the engine in the approximate position for moving it forward. I want to see just how much room there is.
also, I presume you will need to support the front of the tranny during this.
David