Accessing clutch plate on Austin Healey 3000 BJ7

[Hornbro]

I am a new Austin Healey enthusiast and trying to restore a 1963 BJ7 - mostly on my own. I am at the point where I am trying to change the clutch plate and disc, but not sure what the most efficient manner to gain access to it. Any suggestions?

Thanks
Hornbro

 

[TimK]

Try this thread I posted:

#784345 - 07/21/11 03:06 PM Transmission Removal/Replacement
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The first place to start in replacing the clutch is to remove the transmission tunnel. My BN7 has an extra access panel attached to firewall that has to be removed also. I don't think yours does. Then follow the instructions in the shop manual and the tips in my post. Welcome to the forum and feel free to ask questions along the way. There is a lot of experience and willing helpers here.

 

[HealeyRick]

Here's the link to Tim's write-up: https://www.britishcarforum.com/bcforum/u...ceme#Post784345 A couple of other hints. Insert a block of wood between the back of the cylinder head and firewall before removing the tranny. This will help keep alignment proper when you go to put the tranny back in. If you can get a helper for the replacement, you can use an old fan belt or a length of rope at the tailshaft and have the helper stand inside the car and use the belt/rope to help with the input shaft/ crankshaft alignment. While you've got the clutch out, replace the pilot bushing in the back of the crank. You can use a puller to remove the old one, or pack the old bushing with heavy grease, insert a drift with a diameter matching the i/d of the bushing and hit the drift with a hammer. Hydraulic press ure will drive out the old bushing. If you can't enlist a helper, I've found this tranny jack from HF to be a useful assistant that won't complain about having a sore back the day after you've buttoned everything back up: https://www.harborfreight.com/450-lb-capacity-transmission-jack-39178.html

 

[rjc157]

why do you want to change it is the car not going into gear this is a big job taking out the trans more than a one man job the tranny is very heavy i would avoid doint it if not necessary

 

[TimK]

why do you want to change it is the car not going into gear this is a big job taking out the trans more than a one man job the tranny is very heavy i would avoid doint it if not necessary

As I said in my writeup, the trans. weighs 130lbs., but I removed it three times by myself -- up to the point of taking it completely out of the car which my wife and I were able to do with little problem. The key is to have it supported with a jack that has wheels so you can pull it backward with support, then swing it 90 degrees lifting on the bell housing and having the rear resting on the left floor board.

I assume Hornbro has good reason to replace the clutch. Mine was slipping under acceleration in 4th gear. So it would go into gear, but that's not the only consideration.

 

[bob hughes]

Take the passenger seat out of the car the gear box will come out that side.
Remove the tunnel, remove the overdrive cable and remove the starter motor, remove the rear support bolts from the back of the gear box/overdrive then undo the bolts holding the gear box to the engine from inside and below the car, I left two in the top semi tight to keep things together until may pal came around to give a hand.

The trick is to have a plank of wood below the gear box supported on jacks and another jack at the back of the engine to tilt the whole train up. With the help of a friend just pull the gear box away from the engine, sliding it up the plank. Once clear swing it sideways and out of thepassenger door. Replacement is just the reverse, but you need to judge the angle of the plank a bit as no doubt it will be removed to work on the clutch etc. I installed a rear oil seal whilst I was at it, well worth it but there is a trick in getting the seal into the bolt on housing. Will go into detail should you require it.

Check on all operating components whilst you are in there, I had to buy the complete clutch housing as some springs had broken, renew the thrust washer and re bush the fork in the bell housing. Also replace any oil seals - bell housing to gear box.



Bob