3 replies to this topic

[deanosaurusrex96]

Hi all, I've recently fitted a new Verto clutch friction disc to my 1984 Mini City E, which is fitted with an engine from an SPi Mini.

It's always had a very low bite to the clutch, but since fitting the new friction disc, the bite is now so low that the pedal has to be forced down into the carpet in order to engage gears, especially at lower speeds - and releasing the clutch smoothly is harder as well!

The previous clutch disc was fitted two years ago as part of an engine rebuild, having to be replaced due to oil contamination. So, as part of this I'd re-set the primary gear endfloat while replacing the seal, and reset the throw-out stop bolt to 6mm, though I understand this shouldn't affect the clutch bite.

Has anyone got any ideas on whether there's anything I can do to make this more driveable? The master cylinder is original, there are no leaks evident from it or the slave cylinder. I didn't re-bleed the system as part of the recent replacement, as it had been operating perfectly prior to this.

Thanks!

[absx2]

The first thing to do is unscrew the throw out nut and then with an assistant pressing the clutch pedal fully down wind in the throw out nut until you have about a Cornflakes packet thickness of gap and then lock it off.

Unless you have air in the system or wear on the clevis pins it`s most likely your biting point will be much better, if not check for air and wear.

 

An incorrectly adjusted throw out nut will stop you getting full disengagement of the clutch and it can crack the clutch cover or bend the clutch arm.

Edited by absx2, 03 June 2026 - 06:55 PM.

[coopertaz]

does it fully disengage when you press it into the carpet or is it still dragging? contaminated pressure plate or flywheel or primary gear too tight if it does. if not dragging try bleeding and check for leaks on master and slave. As you say it was always low the pin on the operating lever may be worn

Edited by coopertaz, Today, 09:55 AM.

[Ethel]

A new clutch pressure plate could add that bit more stress if anything was already marginal.

Have you checked behind the cylinder dust seal(s) for evidence of leaks?

The Mini's vertical masters can be stubborn to bleed - bleeding at the master cylinder outlet sometimes helps.

All of the above about worn clevises etc.

The slave cylinder bracket on Vertoos can flex a surprising amount, check it's securely bolted & not too rusted.