How can I tell if my clutch is going bad on my 54? The three speed remote tranny is getting harder to shift from one gear to another. Going from first to reverse it grinds a bit. When going from first to second or second to third it helps if I rev the eñgine a bit. I really have to slow down to down shift from third to second.

I should mention the tranny is from a circa 1970 Ford truck. It is synchronized from second to third.

So is the clutch going bad? Or is it something else? I have owned this truck since 1977 and do my recollection I have not replaced the clutch.

 

Could just need adjustment. Usually when bad it won't hold a load, slips under load. Could also be cold oil.

 

Thanks. Could the tranny just be low on transmission fluid?

Or could the throw out bearing be bad?

 

The most likely problem is clutch adjustment. I believe on '54's there is an inspection cover on the bottom of the bellhousing. Looking thru that, you can see if the disc is worn thin, and if it's completely disengaging when you push down the clutch.

 

Any guess on the number of miles on the clutch? It does sound like an adjustment issue. As Scott said, chatter when engaging in first and slipping under load typically are signs of clutch wear.

 

How much play is in the pedal and when does the clutch engage when coming off the floor?

 

Check/adjust the clutch. If problem continues afterward the pilot bearing is probably dragging on the input shaft.