C3 Clutch Grind

[Pat K.]

I have a '69 and I get a grinding noise when I depress the clutch while in gear coasting. I don't hear this noise when I shift, only when in gear and coasting.

The clutch is not slipping. It has about 2,000 miles on it and the pressure plate was resurfaced at the same time. I tried adjusting the clutch, but to no avail.

Anybody have any thoughts on what this could be?

Thanks,

Pat

[David M.]

Re: C3 Clutch Grind

Throw-out bearing likely. When you pull it apart inspect everything. Is it a diaphram or finger type of clutch? Could have issues there. Best to inspect it all for safety. You do not want it to come apart!

[William C.]

Re: C3 Clutch Grind

Bearing problem or bearing improperly seated in the fork.

[Pat K.]

Re: C3 Clutch Grind

Dave,

I'm not sure what type it is yet. What are the chances of this coming apart? Is this a minor nuisance at this point or is it generally recommended to NOT drive a car with this type of problem?

Thanks,

Pat

[Joel A.]

Re: C3 Clutch Grind

Pat said..."...only when in gear and coasting."

If the noise is not there with the trans in neutral, and the clutch pushed in, then it is most likely not a clutch/TOB problem. It could be, however, a pilot bushing noise. If the bushing(or bearing, if it has been replaced) is worn, it can allow the input shaft to "flop" around when coasting in gear, with the clutch mashed down. Was the pilot bushing replaced at the same time as the clutch? A worn end on the input shaft would have the same results. Sounds like time for exploratory surgery!

[David M.]

Re: C3 Clutch Grind

Well, I dont like driving anything thats not right. A broken door knob yes drive train no. It probably wont "come apart" for a long time but the longer you let go the more damage is done. Let a pilot go bad long enough and your looking at a input shaft at least or at worst damage to the crank too. If it turns out to be a querk and something is really about to let go I'd rather find it Joes way with ex.surgery. He is also right regarding the pilot. I've seen it both ways more so with the diaphram style. The finger style generally let you know right away. I had a Chevelle that gave that symptom and it turned out to be a cracked flywheel-real bad! So I now lean towards safety and caution espically trouble-shooting w/o actually seeing and feeling the problem