Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 5 speed difficult to shift into gear from neutral

[JDKammin]

My origional clutch finally gave up a while back by ripping the hub out of the disk. I installed a Southbend double disk with sprung hubs. After installing it, found out the clutch slipped and had to take transmission back out to install the modified clutch fork. Found out it is now included with the clutch kit. Clutch is not slipping anymore, but do find it sometimes difficult to find forward and reverse gears when truck is running and transmission is in neutral. I need to push clutch pedal all the way to the floor in order to engage the clutch and try different gears before going in the gear that I want. Acts like the rod should be longer in order to engage clutch earlier in the pedal travel. Any ideas on making this setup more enjoyable? Thanks.

 

[hsmith]

Did you also go with the upgraded hydraulics from SB? It has an adjustable feature.

 

[JDKammin]

I did not change the hydraulics. When I was ordering the clutch, Peter suggested that I stay with the hydraulics that is in the truck, if it was working and no leaks. I will call and talk to him on Monday.

 

[SMorneau]

Could be your pilot bearing is going out and not letting the input shaft stop.

 

[KYOUNG]

Pilot bearing is seizing up!!!

 

[hsmith]

Probably so, forgot about that little sucker.

 

[JDKammin]

I put in a brand new pilot bearing that came in the kit. Did not forget about it. It has been difficult to get into gear since the moment the double disk clutch was installed.

 

[hsmith]

How is the free travel? I have found that the release lever where it contacts the bearing and also the pivot can have a bit of wear and cause this problem. Doesn't have to be worn much either. If over half of the travel is free, I think you have an adjustment/wear issue.

 

[LMcCary]

I have the same problem after a new double disc was installed. Seems like to much spinning mass, not sure.

Good luck on the answer.

 

[JDKammin]

There is very little free travel. When I first installed clutch with the origional fork, I found out I did not have any free travel, which caused the clutch to slip. After installing the modified fork and bolting the transmission back up, I could reach in the starter hole and check for free travel. There was just enough to know that the clutch was disengaged. I do not have any free travel in the pedal, since it feels like it is disengaging the clutch as soon as I push in the clutch. I made a call to Southbend, after installing the modified arm, and they told me it will get better will miles.