Clutch Problems

bdMember

I got into my 71 Pantera with a -1 ZF a couple of Saturdays ago to back it out of the garage and wash it. With the clutch pedal fully depressed I couldn't get it into reverse. I made the assumption that the clutch master cylinder died on me since it was original. I went ahead and replaced it. With a new master cylinder in place I have the same problem. I have had my son hold the clutch pedal to the floor. The slave cylinder is coming out about 3/4 of an inch and staying out. Just a couple days before this trouble started the transmission and clutch were shifting and working fine. Any ideas? What should I look for?

6/29/054:37 PM

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marlinjackThe Machinist #5723 AMARGOSA MACHINE 'Running on Empty- Middle of Nowhere'

...You might try bleeding the system! Maybe it is time to change the fluid. You probably don't know when it was changed, last. If someone had put the wrong fluid in there (silicone?) silicone compresses when HOT. You can also put the gears into reverse BEFORE you start the engine, break it loose, if need-be, perhaps 'Polish' up the surfaces. Have you checked the adjustment at the slave cylider, lengthen a couple of turns and see what happens. Just be sure NOT to drag on the throw-Out bearing constantly, when the pedal IS released!! Good-Luck!

6/29/056:01 PM

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bdMember

I did a full restoration on this car and completed it about 4 years ago. So the clutch fluid is 4 years old and I did not use silicone fluid. The slave cylinder was adjusted by Dennis Quella at PPC in Castle Rock so I am pretty sure it is correct also.

6/29/057:39 PM

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