Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Need Input on Pos. Clutch Problem

[IdaH.O.Train]

I'm hoping someone can explain what might be causing this.



Why is it that sometimes, from a stop, when I let the clutch out in 1st gear the truck doesn't want to move without pressing the accelerator? It will almost just sit there idling and barely moving. Other times when I let the clutch out it grabs instantly and wants to take off.



I don't know if there's issues with the clutch, transmission or other associated parts.

 

[RustyJC]

Sounds like the throwout bearing is intermittently hanging up and not allowing a full clutch release. When you rev it, the additional centrifugal force will make the pressure plate fingers push back on the throwout bearing, moving it toward a "release" position.



Rusty

 

[Sean Flanagan]

Sounds like the clutch release bearing (throwout bearing) collar is sticking on it's slide. The slide surface is a sleeve around the transmission input shaft that is bolted to the front of the transmission. The sleve also is the input shaft bearing retainer.



Anyway. It could be binding, due to lack of lube, and still partially compressing the pressure plate. If you remove the slave cylinder from the bell housing you can access the end of the lever that operates the release bearing. Try moving the lever in and out to see if it is sticking. I think you can get some motion before the release bearing contacts the pressure plate. I am not sure, I havn't actually tried this.



If it is sticking, you'll probably have to pull the transmission to see what's happening to fix it which is a PITA. I guess there is a chance you could try and snake some sort tubing in through the slave cylinder hole and try and put JUST A DAB of grease on the sleeve. NOT TOO MUCH or it will screw up the clutch. I havn't actually tried this, but hey, it might work and save you the work of pulling the transmission.



I guess it is possible that the slave or master cylinder is sticking. Who knows? Good Luck.

 

[Gizmo 007]

Pull the slave cylinder out of the bellhousing and make sure the rod is mated into the detent on the throwout arm. My 6-speed had a nasty habit of letting the rod of the slave cylinder jump out of the throwout arm, thus not allowing it to fully engage. Just a thought.