Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Lighter clutch?

[ewcmr2]

So I talked a friend into buying a 2001 with nv4500. Tonight I get the email below, any suggestions. I already told him to let his 95lb wife drive:-laf



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Ok, call me a wuss, but the clutch pedal in the Dodge is driving me nuts. * My left knee hurts enough at times that I actually don't want to drive it and wish I hadn't spent all that time looking for a 5 speed..... * I don't think it is a clutch problem. * I think my joints really are wearing out - I've had knee problems for many, many years. * Have you heard of any kits to wussify the clutch action?* Or should I just cash in on it and buy something newer with an auto. * (God, I can't believe I just said that... . )

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[GCroyle]

Without any details about the clutch in the truck and basing my . 02$ on a "stock" system. The 1st area that I suggest inspecting unfortunately requires a trans R&R to inspect all of the mechanical components of the release system to look for areas that require a dab of grease and may be down to raw and rough metal to metal. In particular the release bearing has a grease groove that is to be packed with wheel bearing grease at installation. If this is overlooked you have a bearing that is being pushed forward in an arc by the fork trying to go straight because it slides on the guide tube. The other area that causes an increase in pedal effort is when a clutch disc reaches the worn out stage of its service life, the release load goes up. Also there is nothing wrong with looking at the pedal cluster assembly to rule out any seriously worn components that are adding friction that requires force to overcome it.



This video ‪2004 Dodge Ram Pickup w/ 5. 9L Cummins & NV5600 - Clutch and Flywheel Install‬‏ - YouTube shows the problems we found with a truck that took two feet to push the pedal and then at the end we asked the owner to push the "new" pedal for the first time and gaught his reaction on film.