Experience Dealership line mechanic on MG, Triumph, Jaguar for 15 years, Instructor in commercial mechanics school 2 yr. Product information manager for piston and valve manufacture, Instructor & hotline answer man for import car parts importer 15 yrs.
Organizations Associate member SAE
EAA member
Publications Import Car magazine
Education/Credentials ASE Master Auto with L-1 certification up to 2000
Question QUESTION: I just replaced the clutch fork pivot pin on my 1980 Spitfire 1500. Now when I depress the clutch pedal, I get a little whining noise. When I release the pedal it stops. Does that sound like a problem?
ANSWER: Hi Tom,
It may or may not be a problem but sounds like a release bearing.
Howard
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: I replaced the clutch (including the bearing) a few months back, and I didn't have any problems until I pulled the transmission the other day to replace the clutch arm pivot pin. It seems to be driving ok. I'll just remain vigilant, and if it gets worse I'll take further steps. Thanks.
Answer Even though the release bearing is on a slider, when you replaced the pin in the arm, you slightly moved the point that applied pressure to the slider so that may have set up a noise.
That is a guess as there may be something else off a little. Either way, there is not much of anything you can do from the outside and there is no way to tell if it is ever going to be a major problem.
So, you are correct that maybe a "wait and see" is the best approach until it is necessary to take it out.
Howard
