T-Series Clutch Problem?

[MattP]

I was driving the 77 B today, and when I stopped at an intersection, waiting with the shifter in neutral, I couldn't get it into any gear when I needed to. I managed to coast down the hill into a parking lot, killed the engine, and then I could get into any gear. I was able to get it home with only one grind when I tried to downshift into first pulling into the driveway.

What is going on? I am guessing something in the clutch system, but where is the most likely culprit?

 

[Geo Hahn]

I would bleed the clutch hydraulics and hope I'm lucky.

That's the easiest thing it could be and quite possibly will take care of it.

 

[Matthew E. Herd]

To elaborate on the above, your clutch is simply not disengaging. If bleeding works, all the better, but if not, it's slave, master, or both cylinders. Check for leaks at the slave and master cylinders. The master leak is usually internal, but some fluid generally leaks out. On the slave, it's pretty obvious if you pull back the dust cover and fluid pours out. Personally, I cannot recommend rebuild kits, as they have not worked for me, and I've rebuilt several slave and master cylinders, often with great difficulty and no change after the rebuild. I find new cylinders are the only option, and then they haven't lasted very well. Perhaps I'm the only one, but I've gone through at least 2 brake master cylinders (one old and one new), 2 brand new clutch master cylinders, one of which was rebuilt once or twice, and at least 2 slave cylinders. As of now, I'm running VW brake master (probably with at least 150k miles on it, too), Tilton clutch cylinder, and the stock slave. No trouble as of yet, but the terrible track record of the rebuilt and reproduction cylinders was simply too much to bear. Just a warning, if you can't solve the problem, never automatically assume the replaced part is good.

Matt

 

[WJM]

Hi. Regards to rebuilding clutch slave and master cylinders. I have had no problems after rebuilding my clutch master/slave clynders. But you must take them to a brake repair shop and have them rebore the piston cylinders. If this is not done yes you will have problems after rebuild as rust and scores will still be present and will damage new rubber seals. Well that is my thoughts on the rebuild so good luck and keep us informed. Kind Regards John.