Triumph Repair: 79 Spitfire Clutch Problem, spline input shaft, clutch alignment tool

Question
Jim,

I recently aquired a 79 Spit that has been sitting indoors for 6 years. I've got it running but I've got a clutch problem. I've bled the system. But the clutch is stuck engaged. If I step on the pedal I can see the slave moving the clutch fork but the clutch will not disengage. Is it done for? Should a plan on replacing the whole thing?

Thanks,

John

Answer
John,

What sometimes happens is the clutch disc bonds itself to either the flywheel or pressure plate (or both) after sitting for a while.  

If that's the case sometimes it can be broken free by trying to start the car in gear.  Keep in mind that you can damage the starter motor and/or the flywheel that way.... not an absolute just a possibility.

The other possibility is that the pressure plate was either not tightened down properly or has failed in place.  If that's the case the only solution is to pull the transmission and replace the clutch set.  

On the Spitfire it's fairly easy to remove the transmission.  Disconnect the battery.

Remove the seats (makes it much easier!), remove the dash support, and the carpet over the trans tunnel.  Remove the shift lever and then pull the trans cover off.  Support the engine using a block of wood (2x6 about 8 inches long) on the oil pan, disconnect the driveshaft and the bolts holding trans to the engine backplate.  Move the driveshaft end out of the way and with some muscle the trans will pull free of the engine.  

A clutch alignment tool is essential for reinstalling the trans.  For some reason the 20 spline input shaft on the later trans is a bugger to get to mate with the clutch disc.  The early 10 spline 3 rail trans is much easier to install.

Since the clutch job on the Spitfire is fairly easy, it depends upon how much work you feel like doing.  Sometimes you can get away with pulling the trans, using emery paper on the flywheel and pressure plate faces (and making sure to clean up ALL the dust/grit) and reinstall the old parts.  If you don't want to do that much work with a chance of a repeat then do replace the clutch setup (disc, pressure plate, throwout).


Cheers,

Jim