Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) clutch don't disengage completely

[LWaller]

I installed a south bend clutch in january and it was working fine until this month. Now it don't disengage completely, grinding going into reverse and a drag going into forward gears. I understand there is no adjustment on the pedal. What changed?

 

[Turbo Horseman]

Did your left foot gain weight?

 

[DBoyd]

That's what my truck was doing also. I called South Bend and had them ship me the complete hydraulic clutch master and slave cylinder kit (cheapest I found and the exact same parts that Dodge wants twice the price for!). One evening to install and Now the truck shifts great!

 

[illflem]

A seized throw-out bearing will also cause the symptoms you describe. Before you replace the slave crawl underneath while someone pushes the clutch to check if it is getting the full throw.

 

[NVR FNSH]

Bill,

What's full throw on our trucks? I suspect my shifting difficulty is due to a faulty hydraulic set up or tight pilot bearing. Would love to have some spec to check to hydraulics.



Brian

 

[ROADWARRIOR]

I don't remember the spec. , but I remember it is on Dave Fritz's website.



Dan

 

[illflem]

Here you go - http://dodgeram.org/tech/clutch/Star_v29.htm#tip3

No need to get real accurate in your measurement or even know which cylinder/slave setup you have because a properly functioning slave will have much more travel than the minimums listed.

 

[NVR FNSH]

Cool - thanks for the link. It looks like this came out thru DC - Star Center News V. 29. My question is why hasn't my dealer mentioned this test? Friggin' incompetent lazy negligent ... ... .





Brian

 

[NVR FNSH]

"Have someone push the clutch pedal to the floor and hold it while the technician measures the movement of the slave cylinder push rod. This can be done from the inspection hole in the dust cover using a small metal ruler" From the article on Dave Fritz's site



My question is what inspection cover? I didn't see any way to measure anything... . Any suggestions?



Brian

 

[ROADWARRIOR]

Brian,



If I remember correctly, I inserted a small piece of wire in the hole of the slave mounting flange and pushed it in until it contacted the fork, made a mark on the wire and then again when the slave was actuated, then I measured the distance.



Dan