Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Clutc Noises??

[dshawhan]

Clutch Noises??

Ok my DDII's are in and I have some questions on my clutch. To put it simply I drive hard all the time. I know this isn't easy on the clucth but I still need a little help. What are good signs that my clutch is failing? Are there any noises that I can listen for? I think I am hearing a slight noise like rattling or grinding at low rpm's with a load or even if I lug it a little in 4th gear or higher without a load. Could this be the clutch giving up already? I hope not but if it is I will go with a SB Con OFE when it goes out. I am currently at 78k on the stock clutch if that helps any. Thanks for any help.



P. S. has anyone had to change the front seal on a Dana 80 rear end? mine is leaking and I am curious if I can do it or if I should have someone else do it for me? Thanks again. Dshawhan

 

[jrollins]

the front seal on the Dana 80 isn't rocket science to replace but it can be a pain, you have to drop the drive line, pull the rear differential cover, remove the bolt holding the yoke in and pull the yoke ( pulling the yoke is usually by far the toughest thing to do here). replace the seal and reassemble.

 

[rspinks]

There was another thread that said the rattling noise comes from a somewhat "loose" factory setup in the 6spd that allows things to resonate in the transmission low RPM's under load. Mine will also make this noise coasting down to a stop in 5th gear as well, I try to avoid heavy throttle at low RPM's.



FWIW I first noticed my clutch slipping in 4th and 5th gear when I got on heavy throttle at ~1800rpm (EZ type box only). No noises associated with the clutch problem but there was visual indication on the dash by way of the speedo not keeping up with the tach!