Clucth Problems

[beaudeen]

good morning all..problem with cluctch adjustment..last week had what it seemed as a dry spot on the clutch cable as it made a dry grind sound when depressed..adjusted it a few timesby pushing up on the ratchet adjustment ontop of the pedal..wouldn't adjust by pulling up on the pedal..got a few clicks then everytime the clutch was depressed, god awful grinding sounds..sounded like the throwout bearing not pushing out enough..sounded expensive...now..all back to normal..shifts good with no noises..???..could the cable have been adjusted too tight to make those sounds..just looking for some kind of answer as to what caused this..don't want it happening again...any thoughts would be greatly appreciated...

 

[jelloslug]

I have been getting a grinding feel in the clutch for some time. On my car it the pivot shaft bushing where it comes out through the top of the tranny. If I spray WD-40 on the bushing it will stop grinding for a while but it comes back.

 

[sdpatt]

Did the grinding sound more like it was from a rotating source? Without hearing the noise it is hard to tell, but it is more likely that the throwout bearing and pressure plate interface is worn and will need attention. That is the weakest link in the clutch mechanism.

A dry cable can be replaced or lubricated. To remove the cable end from the clutch actuation lever, prop the clutch pedal up with a 7" long rod, tool shoe, etc. to release the ratchet pawl. You can then pull the ball end of the cable forward at the transaxle lever.

Does the cable move easily by hand? Try to add lubricant (grease) if not. Also check the clutch pedal pivot for friction. **** as necessary. Again, without detailed information, I'd bet teh throwout bearing and pressure plate are worn and will need to be replaced in due time.

 

[beaudeen]

WD40 is a waterbased lubricant and won't last long when exposed to climate changes...try using something with a little more meat..generalpurpoe grease works well..

 

[beaudeen]

For sure the noise was caused by a rotating source..when clutch pedal depressed..ok when engaged..no slipping..but the noise went away...all is fine now...sounds like it will need some attention in the near future...or maybe not..the clutch was replaced by the ford dealer in late 2001..should of lasted longer than 2 years I would think..don't drive her that hard..