Clutch problem?

[grahamh]

Hello
This is my first post. I am new to Stag ownership and the club.
I have bought a 1977 car and it drives fine except when the engine warms up it is difficult to change down gears.
Ist and reverse are realy notchy to get in and when the car is idling in neutral the clutch pedal is not smooth on return.
The gear changes are fine when the engine is cold and the clutch pedal operation is smooth in neutral ( engine off) engine hot.

I have changed the gearbox oil and have ordered a slave cylinder and that will be about the limit of my expertise.
I would be grateful for any advice
Graham

Forgot to say. Car had been stood for 4 years

[richardthestag]

Welcome to the club and forum :-)

Two problems i think.

Issues getting into gear are because the clutch may be dragging, hydraulics are most likely issue. Unbolt the slave, ensure bleed nipple is as high as you can get it before bleeding, else air will be left in the system. Notoriously problematic to get all air out.

Clutch pedal not releasing cleanly could be that the clutch plate is sticking slightly on the gearbox input splines.

Get the clutch bled properly as first action

[grahamh]

Richard
Thanks for the advice.
Cylinder should arrive today and i will attempt to change it Saturday.
Will post outcome

[jleyton]

Hi Graham,

Although I can't add much worthwhile to what Richard has said, I wanted to welcome you to Stag ownership and the Forum. The only thought I have is that they don't like being not used and so that 4 years may well have something to do with the problem - rusty splines on the input shaft that the clutch plate slides on How many miles have you driven it ?

I hope you can get this problem sorted and then enjoy your Stag to the full

Cheers

Julian

[grahamh]

New slave cylinder seems to have done the trick. Just had car out and gear change is nice and smooth.
The old cylinder was weeping a little and was corroded, scored and not travelling full length of bore.
Again thanks for the advice and the welcome into the club.

Graham

[richardthestag]

Great news, enjoy some staggering now