Clutch Issue
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 3,581
Likes: 28
From: Spring, Texas
Clutch Issue
My 72 LT-1 hasn't been driven in at least few months. Last time driven, everything was fine (hence, this was sudden, not gradual). This time, I could not get the shifter into any gear (grinded on each attempt with clutch pedal fully depressed). I verified that the clutch mechanism is functioning (lever going into the bellhousing that you can see without jacking / raising the car).
Obviously it will go into gear with the engine off, but will not when running. I'm good with most mechanical things, but not real familar with clutches. Much of this car is original, so it may have the original clutch plate.
Sound like the clutch plate itself or the throwout bearing? Or something else?
Obviously it will go into gear with the engine off, but will not when running. I'm good with most mechanical things, but not real familar with clutches. Much of this car is original, so it may have the original clutch plate.
Sound like the clutch plate itself or the throwout bearing? Or something else?
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 1,886
Likes: 9
I have heard that if the clutch disc has gotten thin by many miles of use, the rivets can "rust weld" themselves to the flywheel and pressure plate, given enough time and moisture. Unfortunately, it may be time for a fresh clutch, buddy, if you can't loosen it up.
But carefully check the linkage, first.
But carefully check the linkage, first.
Racer
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 458
Likes: 55
From: Southeast Ohio
I have had the clutch stick in my car. The disc stuck to both the flywheel and the pressure plate. This does sound like what has happened to your car.
Does the car try to move forward when you try to start it a forward gear?
Does the car try to move forward when you try to start it a forward gear?
Last edited by Big Block 69; Jun 12, 2012 at 06:12 PM.
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 3,581
Likes: 28
From: Spring, Texas
Thanks for the tips everyone. The linkage and shaft all seem fine, so again, I'm certain the issue lies in the bellhousing. I'll try to free it by starting the car in gear this weekend.
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 11,891
Likes: 3
From: Kansas City, MO ...I'd like to go fishing and catch a fishstick. That'd be convenient. - Mitch Hedberg
I'm trying to get my car moving again after three years in the garage. I can get it started but can't get it in gear when running. What can I do to free the clutch?
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