Re: The Duchess Project: 1940 Super 8 Convertible Sedan

Posted by HH56 On 2014/2/1 22:21:19

When you say stuck in first I take it the gears were still spinning and gears clashing was the reason it wouldn't go into second?? If spinning is not the issue, does the lever feel the same with engine stopped and with it running?

As I recall, my clutch fork isn't able to be removed or done much with while the pressure plate is in place. I wouldn't think you could have displaced anything as long as it wasn't removed. If you were able to remove it then it might be a possibility. What did you take off to clean? If the fork was left alone, possibly something was cracked or worn and causing your previous issue then finally gave up with the stress of an adjustment change.

Taking the bottom off might let you see if the fork looks OK but there is not a lot you can really see or do with the transmission in position. There is a photo in the 46-50 manual showing what you can see -- not very much.

As to whether you can change it yourself, there is a procedure on changing the clutch plate in various postwar SM's and in the training manual. Supporting the rear of engine is a must for starters. If you haven't done it before, it might be nice to have help the first time or else thoroughly read up on what is involved. There are some things that an experienced helper can make a little easier. Knowing what if anything might have to be removed beforehand to clear would be helpful.

To remove the transmission doesn't really take any special tools -- other than maybe jacks -- but does take some knowledge of how things fit together, muscle power and finesse. There is a tool needed to align the clutch plate and long bolts to pilot the transmission sliding in and out but those are easily made. The important thing is safety.

The trans is one very heavy piece of metal being maneuvered in a tight space so needs to be done properly and carefully to avoid damaging anything. There was one forum poster who did his Clipper laying on his back using just muscle power but I know I couldn't do mine that way.

One other thought. You didn't say exactly what the previous not working good issue was. Usually worn clutch plates cause slipping or loss of power so if that was not the issue, I'd wonder about other things.