71 4 speed trans problem!!
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
71 4 speed trans problem!!
Hey Folks,
Thanks again for the help. I just replaced the clutch in our factory big block vette. I replaced the throw out bearing first, then realized I needed to do the entire clutch and have the flywheel machined. I took the trans to my guy and he replaced the front bearing and put new gaskets in after checking everything out. I replaced the clutch with the same (but new) centerforce II clutch and pressure plate. The problem is, I cant get the trans to but up to the bellhousing, it sticks about a half inch from getting together!! The only change is instead of a brass pilot bushing, I used a centerforce needle pilot bearing. It shows to be the correct one. Im stumped guys after shaking and moving the trans back and forth several times, Im stumped!! It stops just a half inch from getting together!! Darnit!! Help??? Thanks, JB
Thanks again for the help. I just replaced the clutch in our factory big block vette. I replaced the throw out bearing first, then realized I needed to do the entire clutch and have the flywheel machined. I took the trans to my guy and he replaced the front bearing and put new gaskets in after checking everything out. I replaced the clutch with the same (but new) centerforce II clutch and pressure plate. The problem is, I cant get the trans to but up to the bellhousing, it sticks about a half inch from getting together!! The only change is instead of a brass pilot bushing, I used a centerforce needle pilot bearing. It shows to be the correct one. Im stumped guys after shaking and moving the trans back and forth several times, Im stumped!! It stops just a half inch from getting together!! Darnit!! Help??? Thanks, JB
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 7,123
Likes: 433
From: Gladstone MO
C3 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
Good for you. I've seen lots of guys try to pull the trans in with the bolts and break the trans case.
Did you make sure the new pilot bearing fits the input shaft? And you used a pilot shaft to align the clutch disc and the pilot bearing when you tightened the pressure plate?
I have to say that I'm not a real fan of the needle or roller bearings in the end of the crank, but that's not the real issue here.
You might try to put some pressure on the rear of the trans with your foot, have someone push the clutch down and then bump the starter- disconnect the coil wire first. That close to being in, the snout on the input shaft will be thru the clutch disc and touching the pilot bearing.
Did you make sure the new pilot bearing fits the input shaft? And you used a pilot shaft to align the clutch disc and the pilot bearing when you tightened the pressure plate?
I have to say that I'm not a real fan of the needle or roller bearings in the end of the crank, but that's not the real issue here.
You might try to put some pressure on the rear of the trans with your foot, have someone push the clutch down and then bump the starter- disconnect the coil wire first. That close to being in, the snout on the input shaft will be thru the clutch disc and touching the pilot bearing.
Last edited by TimAT; Aug 2, 2013 at 12:00 AM.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
Yes, I used the alignment tool, and it seems okay. I believe its just outta alignment a little and maybe in the morning my arms and shoulders wont be so sore!!! I double checked the pilot bearing and they said it is the correct one. I however knew I should of tried it on prior to putting the trans in darnit!! I will let you all know how it goes!! Say a prayer for me:o) JB
Race Director
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 11,358
Likes: 379
From: Plano TX
You need to hook up the clutch linkage and and disengage the clutch (press the pedal to the floor). Then at the same time wiggle the trans and it will pop right in. Either have two people or I use a piece of wood between the clutch pedal and steering wheel to hold the pedal down.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
Hey Zwede, you all are the best. Ive havent gotten it done yet, but I will do exactly as you guys are instructing me!! I just wanted to tell you all that I really appreciate you. Thanks for being so helpful and kind to someone who you dont even know!! You all are the best!! JB
Race Director
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 11,358
Likes: 379
From: Plano TX
No problem, glad to help! Forgot to mention that before I push the clutch in, I get the trans/bellhousing bolts started (by hand only, no wrench at this point). For me it seems to help it pop in when I wiggle the tail after depressing the clutch pedal.
Corvette Stories
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
10 Most Common Corvette Problems of the Last 20 Years!
Joe Kucinski
5 MOST and 5 LEAST Popular Corvette Model Years in History!
Joe Kucinski
2027 Corvette Buyer's Guide: Everything You Need to Know!
Joe Kucinski
10 Things C8 Corvette Owners Hate (But Won't Tell You)
Joe Kucinski
10 Best Corvettes Coming to Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach 2026!
Brett Foote
Every Corvette Grand Sport Explained! (C2, C4, C6, C7, & C8)
Joe Kucinski
Grand Sport & Grand Sport X Launch Alongside All-New 535hp LS6 V8!
Michael S. Palmer
5 Reasons Bad Drivers Crash & 5 Ways to Avoid a Costly Mistake!
Joe Kucinski
7 Bolt-On Upgrades From Extreme Online Store to Level Up Your C6 Corvette
Pouria Savadkouei
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
Hey Folks, well, again, thanks for all the help!! I finally got it butted up to the back of the bell housing. The problem was that like an idiot, I didnt have the clutch disc lined up PERFECTLY, but thought I did and used the tool provided and all!! Anyhoo, now its in, but the darn clutch arm and pushing in the clutch doesnt feel right!!! Arggghh!! So, guess what my friends? The trans is being pulled again, and I will try and see whats up with the new throwout bearing and clutch arm!! Also, the arm is not new, nor is the pivot ball inside the bellhousing, but both still seem okay. Any more ideas fellas? Again, thanks for being so cool to me guys, Lord willing I can return the favor one day on here!! JB
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 2,655
Likes: 19
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
Hey Gary, thanks for that info!! All of this really helps. As you all know people say that knowledge is power!! I havent gotten back to the clutch issue yet as I suffer from some spine problems, but I still push through!! I will let you all know the outcome my friends!! JB
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
Fixed Clutch!!
Hey Guys/Gals,
Thanks to all of you and my trans guy Devon of Top Gear Transmissions, the 71 is up and running awesome!! Now, its just a matter of getting used to how quick the cars 440 horses CATCH after you let out the clutch!!
But I really appreciate you all and your kindness to me and my wife as it is really her car and she is back to smiling from ear to ear
JB
Thanks to all of you and my trans guy Devon of Top Gear Transmissions, the 71 is up and running awesome!! Now, its just a matter of getting used to how quick the cars 440 horses CATCH after you let out the clutch!!
But I really appreciate you all and your kindness to me and my wife as it is really her car and she is back to smiling from ear to ear JB