Observation/question (TOB)

[MOSHO92]

When I replaced my clutch about 10K miles ago, I used the TOB that Southbend sent me.

It didnt seem to be of the best quality when I installed it (Thin materials, non-precise fitment, etc..) This was my first clutch job and therefore my first experience with any throw out bearing so I was under the impression that all TOBs were alike. On a side note: they did supply a quill sleve and I did install it using loctite's sleve retaining compound.

I have been having some problems that I think are related to the TOB and I wanted your opinion.

1) When shifitng at high rpms there is a loud rattle in the clutch pedal.

2) When the engine is hot the clutch pedal feels "sticky". It kind of grabs as is goes down and up. If I shut the engine off and move the pedal slowly I can hear it grind a little (sound comes from the engine bay).

So, does this sound like a TOB issue or a clutch cable issue? If it is the TOB I will call Southbend and see if there is a warranty on this.

Lastly do you think that this could damage the pressure plate fingers (assuming that it is the TOB) if I continue to drive on it?

 

[AutoSHO]

I am experiencing the exact same things. Unfortunately, I was with my last clutch as well so I assumed it was either the release fork or clutch cable causing the problem. I am going to replace the clutch cable soon so that will eliminate one source of possible problems.

I noticed the stickyness also when actuating the TOB by hand while just in the bellhousing, moving the fork with my hands.

What is unusual in mine is that occasionally it will be perfectly smooth and feel great (although still having that horrid buzz/rattle/vibration while shifting up high). Very weird indeed. Let me know if you find a solution.

 

[Zap]

Out of curiosity, did you replace the bushings on the clutch fork, and clean the bellhousing real well? What I found when I pulled my MTX was that everything was gummed up from the previous clutch. It was hard to press the pedal or even just move the fork with my hands and it didn't move very smoothly. After being cleaned, with new bushings (synthetic grease on the bushings!) and a new TOB, the fork feels wonderfully smooth.

 

[AutoSHO]

I cleaned everything thoroughly.