Well we started assembling our rebuilt m20, and with the cluster gear installed and all rollers, washers, end bushings, and spacer in place, rolling the gear by hand it seems to hit a rough point that I think is the large end that has a sheet metal plate fastened to it. It appears to be the end of a spring protruding through the plate and I think it may be contacting something in the case. Almost non existant when turning in one direction, but quite noticable turning the other way. Is this a problem? It sure seems like one.
Can anyone shed some light on this bind/rough spot. And what is the piont of that plate and spring/

Thanks in advance,
Rich

 

That spring loaded plate is an anti-rattle device that keeps constant tension between the input gear and the cluster gear. If I remember correctly, only wide ratio gear sets use it. Are you sure that the front tanged thrust washer is there between the cluster gear roller spacer and the case ??? If it is, bang out the countershaft and remove the gear. Inspect that plate and make sure that the springs are in place and not cocked. It's been a long time since I rebuilt a Muncie, and I really don't remember if those springs can be disloged. Is the cluster gear new, or the old one ???

 

It is generally recommended to grind off the rivet heads, remove the flat gear and spring and THROW them away! Replacement clusters don't come with it and all the rebuilders (including myself) toss the flat gear and spring.