7 replies to this topic

[spiretmc]

Hi, got a mini thirty (1989) 998cc engine with verto clutch. I got over enthusiastic once I got the engine running after full restoration and wanted to test the gearbox and used the clutch. The slave cylinder was not secured properly and it basically broke it. The piston and seal needed to be replaced, which I have done. Now when I bleed it bleeds fine and the pedal feels great when you push it down. Once pushed down it won’t return again (without using a persuasion device). Has anyone got any idea what to do before I take the engine back out and check the clutch system? Cheers

[Guess-Works.com]

You probably just need to remove the clutch cover, which can be done engine in car, and check the arm and plunger for free movement... while it's out I'd be tempted to replace the pins, arm and plunger anyway, new parts reduce the amount of free play in the pivot mechanisms and provides a much more positive feel to the clutch.

[spiretmc]

Hiya mate cheers for the reply. That is what we have just done, and other than a little bit of wear there isn't a great deal that would suggest that would be causing the problem. Have you got any other ideas/advice? thanks again

[bmcecosse]

Don't even need to remove it - just apply plenty of penetrating type oil (so NOT WD40) - and work it back and forth till it comes free.

[spiretmc]

Hi I am still stuck. I have removed the clutch cover replaced the plunger and the arm, and the release bearing is brand new any way and so is the clutch. As i said full restoration. So everything mechanical should therefore theoretically be fine, it glides in and out and i can move it with me hand. The clutch is bled and basically when u press the pedal down its really easy for maybe one and a half strokes. Then goes rock solid as it presumably cant go in any further. The pedal returns back to its normal position so appears fine, press it again and without manually pushing the arm back (forcing the piston back up the slave cylinder) but will still go rock hard again after pressing the pedal again. Im so confused can anyone help me PLEASE! cheers

[yellowmonster]

To me it sounds like a shot slave: you mentioned it not being properly fastened on your initial try.
Changes are, the bore is damaged/ scuffed resulting in the piston haveing trouble travelling all the way.
Have a look inside (remove the piston) and see if I'm right, will cost you about 15 minutes right?
If it is damaged indeed, replace it: costing 30-ish quid, it isn't dear..

Edited by yellowmonster, 20 August 2011 - 12:14 PM.

[midridge2]

is the return spring fitted? could it be the hydrolic cluth pipe collapsed inside? did you replace the pivot pin?

[Guess-Works.com]

Really silly question... have you put the top hat on the clutch

Verto clutches don't have 'assistance springs' like the older diaphragm clutch, they rely on the clutch spring to push the plunger and hence the arm and slave..