Tranny noises. is it the TOB?

[JEFF_24V]

I have a 95 mtx. i have had it parked for a year now for financial reasons. the last time i drove it (jan 04) there was a rattling noise coming from the tranny area. if i started the car, the noise would be highly noticable, but would dissapear if the clutch pedal was pressed in. all of the shifting and driving seemed to be fine, just this annoying rattle to be heard when the clutch was left alone. I was also able to feel a vibration in the shifter that went with the rattle. I had it running the other day for the first time in 6 months, noise is still there but wasn't as loud although i only ran it for 10 minutes. A year ago it was very loud. does anyone know if it is infact the TOB i am looking at to get this car back on the road?

Jeff.

 

[sdpatt]

Yes, it is most likely the TOB which is the weakest link in the MTX SHO's drivetrain. First try lifting up on the clutch pedal with about 10 pounds of force. This will tighten the clutch cable if it is loose.

The TOB is designed to remain in constant contact with the pressure plate fingers and spin along with it. If the cable is not tensioned periodically or the tensioner spring in the clutch pdeal mechanism is weak or broken, the cable will not be tightened sufficiently. That tension is needed to keep the required load on the shift lever to keep the TOB pressure on the pressure plate.

If the clutch pedal feels rough or binds as you depress it, that is another sign of wear at the TOB/pressure plate interface.