Triumph Repair: TR6 Clutch, clutch master, clutch slave

Question
I have a 71 TR6 that has been in storage for several years.  I can start it but the clutch is completely frozen / can't depress it.  Where should I start ?  Rick

Answer
Rick,

The clutch on the TR6 is hydraulically operated.  What it sounds like is either the clutch master (connected to the clutch pedal) or the clutch slave (operates the clutch release arm) have frozen.

On the TR6 you may be able to remove the clutch slave from the engine compartment.  Otherwise you can access it from inside the car by removing the transmission tunnel (after first removing the dash support, carpet, and possibly a seat).

First off, see if there is fluid in the system.  Check the clutch master resevoir (aluminum round resevoir next to the clear plastic brake resevoir) to see if any fluid remains in the system.  You can try opening the bleed valve on the slave to see if it's the slave that's frozen.  

From there it's a matter of pulling the hydraulic components and either rebuilding them (if they're not badly pitted) or replacing them (if they are badly pitted).

Once you get the clutch working it might not be a bad idea to check out the rest of the drivetrain while you have the interior pulled apart.  Check the condition of the rubber transmission mount.  There are 6 universal joints in the TR6 drivetrain, and it's well worth checking/regreasing them before trying to drive the car on the road.



Cheers,

Jim