Classic/Antique Car Repair/49 Ford clutch

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Expert: - 4/15/2010


Question
Recently acquired a 1949 ford with 3 speed on the column.  When starting out in first gear the clutch "clatters"(not smooth at all) alot until it is finally engaged.  Also need to give it a good bit of gas to get engaged.  No problem going into second or third.

Thanks for input

Answer
Most likely the problem is the clutch plate or the pressure plate. There are springs in both units and when they get weak chatter occurs. But i would also check for oil leaking from the rear main oil seal or the transmission input shaft. The final thing to check is the motor mounts to make sure that they are ok. Mounts that have deteriorated will allow the engine to bounce in its cradle and cause uneven movement of the clutch operating rod.
Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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