72 Clutch Noise Revisit

[Ray Wolson]

I have a 72 350 - 200 H.P. roadster with a 4-speed transmission. It recently developed a noise I can't track down. When the car has been driven for several miles in warm temperatures (stop and go traffic with the car getting good and warm) there is a noise that becomes noticeable when the clutch pedal is depressed. The car shifts smoothly even when the noise appears and the noise is very low or non-existent when the car is cold. I just had it in to my mechanic to see if he could track it down and he lubricated the housing around some of the linkage that has a plug installed by removing the plug, installing a grease fitting, lubricating, and re-installing the plug. The clutch was quiet and smooth but after about 30 miles on the way home, the noise appeared once again. The noise sounds like a spring and it seems to occur when the pedal is close to the floor. Once the noise starts there is also a "feel" associated with depressing the clutch pedal that, to me, feels like a spring hanging up and then stretching. The noise and "feel" are there even with the engine off after the mechanicals have heated up even in the garage with the engine off. After the car cools (in this case overnight but I'm not sure about the length of time required) I depressed the clutch pedal and the sound and "feel" were gone and the clutch pedal moved smoothly.

I had some suggestions after the initial posting on the discussion board regarding the throwout bearing and the thin cover plate that might have warped and causing the noise but my mechanic said this can't be the cause since the noise and "feel" are there with the engine off. The transmission is in reverse with the engine off while depressing the clutch pedal.

Any ideas. I'm a little afraid to just start spraying some liquid lubricant on pivot points under the dash because the linkage is near the fuse block and couls cause a "real" problem.

Thanks in advance. Ray

[Jack H.]

For grins...

try using your foot to 'force' the clutch pedal fully upright after you shift and generate the 'strange noise'. If the noise goes away, it's a matter of getting the clutch adjustment right (see shop manual) and/or replacing fatigued clutch pedal return spring(s)....

[Terry M.]

Re: For grins...

Ray,
Your description sounds as though Gary lubricated the clutch cross shaft. Did he lubricate the pivot ball stud, or take a peak inside through the rubber boot? I would ask him, but I think he is on vacation this week.