CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT

[malminor]

I am currently renovating a 71 saloon, I have concentrated on the welding. but before starting had the engine running, good oil pressure etc. and moved back and forth on the drive.
I noticed when underneath there is a threaded rod on the clutch push rod, the ajusting nut is fully wound in (about 3 inches of thread showing)
I take it the clutch is almost finished, while I have the transmission tunnel off which is the best way to replace the clutch, engine out or gear box off.
as the car is for my 17 daughter (learner driver) whats the best clutch to fit, I gather there is a better release bearing available, is the hydraulic bits worth going for.

[bmcecosse]

Hydraulic no, just fit a new plate and thrust bearing - and almost all agree engine out is by far the easier way to go. But the clutch may have many miles left in it. Have a look in the inspection holes (remove rubber plugs) and see how much carbon is showing on the release bearing. If none - it needs changing - the plate may have plenty of meat on it - sadly can't be seen. Important when driving a car like this to teach daughter to stay OFF the clutch pedal. It's a carbon bearing that weras away when in contact with the clutch. So the car must be held in neutral with clutch not depressed when stopped - then clutch down -into gear - moving away and clutch up as quickly as possible. There are roller bearing conversions about - but because the clutch arm movement is not concentric with the gearbox input shaft (moves in an arc) these bearings are not ideal.

[Willie]

It is well worth checking for wear on the clutch release mechanism beneath the car as there are several clevis pins which may be worn along with their housings and the chief culprit is the domed rubber bush which is mounted on the chassis leg inside a metal housing. This can wear away alarmingly and loses you a great deal of adjustment.

[malminor]

Thanks, I'll have a look through the inspection points first, if it's worn and engine out is easier, it might as well come out for a paint, , it was going to be done sometime later. will definately change the bushes at the same time, thanks for the driving tip, the poor car is in for a hard time, saved from the scrap yard though as I have welded in just about every panel going.

[malminor]

engine out, looking for a new clutch, I noticed a thrust bearing for a hydraulic clutch at £40 ish more than standard, what's the difference
between the two
how much paint does it take to do the engine block / head.