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Cliff or Clutch?

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My clutch education is limited to the 3 1/2 years I've owned the car and is somewhat limited. But at the onset I had some problems getting the clutch to release and the accompanying grinding of gears. I rebuilt the slave which helped some, but the thing(s) that made the most diffence I think were (1) replacing the plastic hose between the master/slave with a stainless steel one and (2) replacing the clutch pedal shaft bushings (Moss part 330-285). Apparently the old plastic hoses can weaken and expand enough under pressure,especially when warm, that there is not enough pressure transferred to the slave. And worn bushing can also add enough slop in the pedal action to do the same. I could really feel a diffence after replacing those bushings. Actually, I didn't even "replace" them, I "placed" them, as they were totally missing. My two cents' worth. Plus, I agree with all the recommendations already made.
 
Total travel on a TR6 clutch isn't very far, probably just over an inch. I go with the clutch master not supplying pressure to slave theory.
I know that it's hard to imagine, but this will all be a memory someday as you're driving in the sun enjoying the fruits of your labors.
 
I think we all feel your pain! I've had my 78 Spitfire for about 8 or 9 months now. Being a Spitfire, I'm even farther away from recouping my costs than if I owned another Triumph but that hasn't stopped me. My car was a real barn find. Spent 11 years rotting in a real barn. Needless to say, just about everything was gone, rotten or frozen. I worked on it for 6 months fixing just the basics: engine, brakes, seats (have to sit on something!). I failed the safety inspection twice. It's hard to describe how happy I was when I passed on the 3rd try! Now I can drive around in what most sane people would describe as a junker. I really love working on the thing. If it was finished I think I would have to get another one just for the (many) opportunities to work on it! I was driving around the neighborhood the other day and heard a clunk from the drivetrain. Instead of being bothered I thought "great! I get to work on something else". No kidding. I'm sick.
Anyway, I just wanted to give you the perspective that it's not another problem, it's another opportunity! (right!).
Best of luck!
 
As was said, the hose between the slave and master can give you problems. My clutch has beee find after replacing it with a new one though. Used the red nylon hose, from Moss if I remember right, but it's been 8 years or so I can't remember very well. Good luck and don't give up. It's got to be the hydraulics it sounds like. Pete
 
Update: First, thanks to everyone for being encouraging. It really helps to be able to vent frustration and get positive feedback. So, yesterday I bled the clutch one more time, which helped some but still grinding.
I was getting ready to go buy a master cylinder and had the car rolled out in the driveway. I also had my 51 Willys M38 out since it was a nice day for a ragtop drive. A guy stopped by in a restored BMW because he saw the jeep, then saw the tr6 and knocked on the door. He used to have a 6 years ago and we chatted for awhile. I mentioned the clutch problem and he said "Is that new carpet and padding?" "Yes why?" "I'll bet that's what's preventing full travel of your pedal."
Long story short, I cut out a square section of carpet and it shifted as smooth as silk. Boy did I have some redfaced apologizing to do to the car. Took it for a drive with no problems (those Pirellis are nice!) and at a stoplight a couple pulls up in one of those ridiculous, "hot rod" Hondas. The girl looks over and says to the guy "Yeah, now THAT's a sports car." Gave me a chuckle. Okay...you guys were right. It was worth the headaches and hassles and frustrations. Thanks.
 
Congrats!
it seems like 90% of the time it's the silly things we don't think of.

the other 10% its major difficulties.........
 
[ QUOTE ]
The girl looks over and says to the guy "Yeah, now THAT's a sports car."

[/ QUOTE ]

It doesn't get much sweeter than that! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsup.gif
 
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