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While I've got my Muncie 4 speed removed from the car, what is the best way to tell the condition of my clutch and flywheel and pilot bearing? Thanks for all the help with my other questions, this bulletin board is such a wonderful resource. I really enjoy working on my project car but I lack the experience and being able to query such a large group of experienced veterans is invaluable to me. Thanks, Bill
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Re: While I've got my 4 speed out.....
I did my '80's clutch last year. Replaced disc, pressure plate, throwout bearing(Borg-Warner Kit, $127.00), had flywheel reground($20.00), installed the GM rollerbearing($11.95 from GM)in place of the brass pilot bushing, replaced clutch fork stud in bellhousing('55 to '81 Corvette used same one). Do it RIGHT, Do it ONCE!!! -
Re: While I've got my 4 speed out.....
Bill, I agree with Paul while you have it apart just do it! The cost of these components is not outrageous and if in the middle of next summer the clutch fails you will be kicking yourself. Replace the pilot bushing with the new style pilot BEARING, and don't cheap out on the clutch/pressure plate combo. I use Centerforce, but there are plenty of others, be certain to resurface the flywheel too. Whatever you do DO NOT install a NAPA or some such rebuilt components. Vettes make too much torque, and they will not stand up to any sort of "Spirited" driving. Been there and unfortunately got the Tee Shirt. Good Luck!Comment
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Re: While I've got my 4 speed out.....
Bill----
I agree with the other posters. Whenever one goes through all of the work to remove a transmission, one should replace any other parts which are, consequently, convenient to replace. If the clutch has been in the car for a while, I wouldn't even bother with trying to assess its condition; I'd just replace it. Use a NEW, HIGH QUALITY, clutch cover/pressure plate assembly, a NEW, HIGH QUALITY MATCHED friction disk, and a NEW, HIGH QUALITY release bearing. ALWAYS replace the pilot bearing. The GM needle bearing unit(GM #14061685) can be used, but this bearing is intolerant of any bellhousing to engine/transmission misalignment. This condition is difficult to check for, but, most times, the roller bearing will work without difficulty.
I'd inspect the flywheel carefully. If there is significant wear/damage to the ring gear teeth or if there is CONSIDERABLE "blueing" or major surface-cracking, I'd replace it. Otherwise, surfacing will be ok, instructing the machinist to take a MINIMUM CUT that will true and clean it up.
I'd also replace the clutch fork (GM #3887177) and the clutch fork ball stud(GM #3729000).In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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Re: While I've got my 4 speed out.....
Thanks, guys for the advice. I don't know when or how long this clutch has been in the car so I guess I should replace it since it is a lot of work to get to this stuff. It's easy now since I'm having the bearings rebuilt and the differential rebuilt. Thanks, BillComment
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Re: While I've got my 4 speed out.....
I agree with the other postings. In addition, since you don't know the age or condition of the clutch, replace it. Why bother measuring wear, when you don't know if the clutch was abused or not. I have had real good luck with Centerforce.Comment
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