1980 4/speed "grinds" into reverse...need help

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Mar 21, 2009 | 07:39 PM

demoke

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Racer

Joined: Dec 2008

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From: Matthews North Carolina

1980 4/speed "grinds" into reverse...need help

Just had my original L-48/190hp rebuilt to a 355 hp and also replaced the worn-out clutch . The engine was built with 10.25 to 1 Speed Pro Hypereutectic Pistons, a Comp Cams .500 lift Hydraulic Roller Camshaft, Professional Products Typhoon Intake and a 750 CFM Holley Carb. The clutch was replaced with a Ram clutch. My problem is that my car(a 4/speed) is very difficult to get into reverse without "grinding" the gears. In the am when i start the car, it will go into reverse easily, but as the car warms up, it becomes more difficult. Any suggestions as to what this might be. i've tried tapping the gas pedal to get the rpm back down but doesn't really help. It also did this before the rebuild but not this bad. Any help would be appreciated. I did not do the rebuild myself and am only a "novice" mechanic at best....thx again
Robert

Mar 21, 2009 | 07:44 PM

Gordonm

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From: Forked River NJ

I would suspect the clutch is not adjusted correctly. Reverse gear does not have a syncro so the gears should be totally stopped before trying to shift into reverse. If the clutch is dragging slightly the gears may still be turning therefore grinding a little going into gear. Try to adjust the clutch first.

Mar 21, 2009 | 08:02 PM

TimAT

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From: Gladstone MO

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Sometimes the pilot bearing will be a little rough and is keeping the input shaft turning even with the clutch adjusted properly. Just shift it into first gear and then go to reverse.

Mar 21, 2009 | 08:55 PM

DIP51

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From: State of Confusion!!!

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Quote:

Originally Posted by TimAT

Sometimes the pilot bearing will be a little rough and is keeping the input shaft turning even with the clutch adjusted properly. Just shift it into first gear and then go to reverse.

Works every time!!!

Mar 21, 2009 | 09:59 PM

71coupe454

Burning Brakes

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From: Clarksville Indiana

put it in reverse before you start it?

Mar 21, 2009 | 11:31 PM

KapsSA

Safety Car

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From: Beecher Illinois

Quote:

Originally Posted by TimAT

Just shift it into first gear and then go to reverse.

that's what I do, too.

Mar 22, 2009 | 06:31 AM

7T1vette

Team Owner

Joined: Jan 2006

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From: Crossville TN

Those 'tricks' will abate the problem...but the cause may still be that the clutch isn't fully disengaging when you apply it.

Mar 23, 2009 | 09:51 PM