LS5 Engine Install

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Dec 5, 2013 | 08:47 PM

grumman41

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Burning Brakes

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LS5 Engine Install

I got the engine put back in yesterday, thought it went very smooth untill I got to the clutch linkage....the linkage is installed correct, double checked with the assembly manual but something is incorrect with the clutch fork- throwout bearing. There is not correct resistance on the clutch pedal, is it possible for the clutch fork to be knocked out of position during install?

I was not sure of the exact setup on the large hex screw that the clutch fork pivots on, could this be the problem?

Thanks, Kevin

Dec 6, 2013 | 07:37 AM

grumman41

Thread Starter

Burning Brakes

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Install

Any takers? I'm stumped, next step is trans removal if I don't get it resolved.

Kevin

Dec 6, 2013 | 07:57 AM

Gordonm

Race Director

Joined: Dec 1999

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From: Forked River NJ

Did you install a new clutch or flywheel or throw out bearing?

Dec 6, 2013 | 12:11 PM

grumman41

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Burning Brakes

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New LET clutch-throwout bearing and resurfaced existing flywheel.

Kevin

Dec 6, 2013 | 05:16 PM

roadblock69

Instructor

Joined: Nov 2012

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From: Irma Northern WI

In short, it is possible that you bumped the fork off of the throw out bearing during the install. You will have to pull the motor back up, if you are not too far along, or pull the transmission. This is one of those things that it very difficult to diagnose online. best of luck!

Dec 6, 2013 | 07:43 PM

grumman41

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Burning Brakes

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I got the clutch issue resolved, it was a combination of bent fork and worn linkage components. I'm trying to keep this build all original but
having serious thoughts about modding the mechanical clutch linkage with bearing rod ends...this is a real wooden axle set up! I replaced the worn parts but the clutch action still has a " two stage feel to the clutch action" I think this is due to the friction in the system.

Kevin

Dec 7, 2013 | 12:51 AM

1974ta

Melting Slicks

Joined: Feb 2004

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From: Damascus MD

Clutch

Quote:

Originally Posted by grumman41

Save your money. I rebuilt all the components on my mechanical clutch set up (70 corvette M20) and I am very pleased with how it all works.

The closest set up and OEM manufacture is LUK. The LUK will have a feel similar if not exactly as it was new. I spoke to a lot of experts and if they removed more than .010 when resurfacing the flywheel that is too much and can affect the operation of the mechanical system.

The clutch fork ball being worn can cause problems. GM replacement is about $15.00. (Use correct lube) The clutch fork assembly is readily available both repro and GM. GM may be the repro from Paragon too. Maybe $75.

Use ARP bolts for a little extra safety rather than reuse originals for flywheel and pressure plate. Follow installation instructions.

Replace the pedal clutch rod as the holes in the ends become egg shaped. Then check your clutch pedal to see if the pin is worn out. You don't want a failure. While you have the pedal assembly out replace the bushings and lube properly.

Make sure your pilot bushing is non-magnetic oilite bronze type. Auto Gear manufactures the correct bushings.

Balance the flywheel and pressure plate separately and as an assembly.

Hope I didn't forget anything.

Bill

Dec 7, 2013 | 08:43 AM

grumman41

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Burning Brakes

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Thanks Bill, great info. I think I'll just replace the worn parts. I hope they didn't remove too much material from the flywheel, didn't check dimensions before assembly.

Kevin