Morris Minor Owners Club

simmitc wrote: ↑Mon Jan 12, 2026 5:20 pm I was going to suggest checking the free play but as it's a 1275 engine with a van gearbox, I'm not sure what the free play should be - it's different for the standard 948 and 1098 engines.

Has the gearbox got a ribbed case or a smooth case? Is the clutch a mechanical linkage or been changed to hydraulic?

It really does look like you have a great car there, but if it's had a lot of little tweaks, then the advice might change from standard.

Good point never picked up on 1275 engine, are they more likely to have hydraulic clutch? I had assumed mechanical with van gearbox mentioned.

Sometimes there is wear in the clutch operating linkage that can make the clutch very on/off. It makes precise clutch control difficult. Mine was very worn but I could cope with it as it had worn gradually and I am very familiar with the car. It was only when ESM had the car for something else and they drove it that it was noticed. When the car returned with a new linkage it was so obvious to me that it was much easier to drive even though I hadn't noticed the fault!

Just noticed the post above. If it has a hydraulic clutch that is another matter.......

Stephen

Thanks all, some good points raised. Will definitely get my friend to help me look over the clutch to make sure nothing is amiss or needs adjusting!