Clutch question

[1049Participant]

Can anyone explain the cause – or the solution – to this issue?

On a recent 1,100km trip to Versailles I noticed that it was difficult to engage 1st gear without some “crunching” when stationary & the engine idling when the engine was hot, but no so when cool; this happened on several (if not every?) occasions. It was certainly when the engine was not, and not caused by me “slipping” the clutch (which may have caused the clutch to get hot as opposed to the engine being hot).

TIA

Julian

[BernieParticipant]

This is quite common.  The crunch is because the gearbox  mainshaft is still turning while you are attempting to select first gear – but there is no synchro on 1st.

Once the engine is warmed up the gearbox oil will be slightly thinner allowing the mainshaft to continue to turn more freely when idling – even after the clutch has been depressd.

I find the simplest solution is to momentarily select either of the other forward gears before moving the lever to first gear.  The synchro on the selected gear will stop the box turning, allowing first to then be selected without any grating.  The action is more of a “bounce” in and out of 2nd or 3rd and it does not take long for it to become a “habit” and not require any conscious effort.

B…………….

 

[1049Participant]

Thank you, Bernie! That makes complete sense – and will try your method next time out.

Julian.

[Author]

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