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MG MGB Technical - Slipping clutch

Hi, I'm new to this BBS having recently bought a 1977 mgb roadster - lovely car and previously well-kept.

The clutch has started slipping but only in 3rd and 4th gears - surely with a contaminated or worn clutch it would be expected to slip in 1st and 2nd as well?

Should I just replace the clutch or anticipate the need for a gearbox change as well (though it doesn't jump out of gear and there's no untoward gearbox noise)?

Thanks!

Judah.
J Eastwell

It's not unheard of for a worn overdrive unit to give the symptoms of a slipping clutch. Does it also slip with overdrive engaged?
Dave O'Neill 2

A slipping clutch will normally manifest itself by slipping in 3rd or 4th gear when accelerating - especially up a hill.

If the gearbox is not making any bad noises, synchromesh is not crunching and is not jumping out of gear it should not need replacing/repairing.

Clutch plates are a wear item. A new clutch should last for 60,000+ miles if not abused.

John
J Tait

Hi Judah....Just to confirm what Johh replied.....A simple well known clutch test to see if it is slipping
select 4th gear with handbrake on & try to pull away. A non slip clutch car will move or stall the car, Similar to 4th uphill...Steve
S Hook

It certainly seems sounds like clutch. Unfortunately it is engine out to replace. Make sure you change the diaphagm and thrust bearing at the same time, and buy best parts you can.
c cummins

A proper clutch kit will contain friction plate, cover plate and release bearing. There are (or have been) two common manufacturers - Borg & Beck and Quinton Hazell, the former are supposed to be better. Check the release bearing carefully, for a while these were being made with a roll-pin through the side of the casting (very obvious) to hold the carbon ring in place instead of being bonded, but these are known to shatter with very low mileage.
Paul Hunt 2010

Thanks for the advice - new clutch kit on its way!

Judah.
J Eastwell

This thread was discussed between 13/06/2010 and 15/06/2010

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