Clutch Problem. 68 340 Formula S

[1968FormulaS340]

I just can’t get my clutch adjusted properly. It is
not a linkage problem. Using the clutch adjusting
rod, if I lengthen it to the point that I get proper
disengagement the TO bearing is into the pressure
plate fingers when the clutch is out. If I shorten
the rod I have the problem of not enough
disengagement, cant shift well and load on the engine
with clutch in.

I have a Ram clutch (3 finger design) that is about
10/1000 years/miles old (yes 1000 miles in 10 years.
My guess is a bad pressure plate. Any ideas?

 

[68gts340]

have you had it apart recently?

 

[1968FormulaS340]

No it has been in the car for years. Im going to pull it and fix it but its just too cold, even in the shop this time of year.

 

[OUTLAW]

a problem with clutches that sit for long periods of time (I've had this happen to me too) is the facings on the disc can get stuck to the flywheel and /or the pressue plate and when you do get them broken loose sometimes a piece of the disc material gets torn and stuck between the disc and the pressure plate/or flywheel causing the exact problems you describe. I also see this on lots of cars brought into my shop that have sat for years at a time. Chances are you only need a disc as the presure plate is fine

 

[1968FormulaS340]

Thanks. I bet thats it. Whats a good street strip clutch these days. In track trim back in the day the car ran a best of 11.78 in the 1/4. Now I just drive it on the street, for the most part, on E70-14 Red Lines with full wheel covers.

 

[68gts340]

I have had some luck fixing the problem by slipping the clutch , if the problem is rust it can usually be burned off , besides it is easier and cheaper than just pulling it apart. just dont go nuts and fry the pressure plate, the material is usually stuck to the flywheel and / or the pressure plate . I have had one in the past that was froze up so bad i could not get it into gear with the motor running, so i started it in gear and held the clutch in , drove less than a block and it broke loose and was fine after that.