Packard Forum Index » Studebaker Built Packards (1957 - 58)

Hi Guys,
Looking for some ideas.I have a 1957 clipper sedan that is equipped with the borg-warner 3 speed with over drive.I recently had the original clutch replaced.It shifts great for about a half hour of driving time (aprox 7-10 miles) When I stop at a light I put it in neutral and take my foot off the clutch.When I press down the clutch and try to put it into first the gears chatter.If I take her home and start it up later she will run fine then repeat the whole situation again.The noise also happens at this time if I put her into reverse,second and third are fine. Any ideas?

Spfan

It is not the transmission, your new clutch is dragging slightly. That could be caused by too much free play at the pedal, I think 1.5" should be good. Second guess would be the pilot bearing dragging. The last guess is that the mechanic did not replace the dowel bolts that align the bell housing to the engine. If the trans is a little off center, the clutch will drag. When the oil in the trans is cold, it drags enough to stop the gears so that you can shift. Once it warms up the gears keep spinning even though you have pushed the clutch, and hence it grinds when engaged.

I agree, try a free play adjustment.
Also was the flywheel resurfaced when the clutch assembly was replaced?

Agree, it's most likely the clutch. However, on sixty-year-old cars, all the rubber has deteriorated. The motor and transmission mounts as well as the bushings in the shift and clutch linkage. If all these are renewed and then clutch free play adjusted, things work better.

jack vines