Help! Clutch question??
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Freshman User
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 45
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From: Piedmont
Help! Clutch question??
I have a question regarding my clutch. I have a 86 302 FI 3sp. with overdrive that almost "chokes" out everytime I start off in 1st or reverse. The clutch is VERY stiff and I have to push all the way to the floor for it to engage. Also, it engages almost immediately off of the floor. I basically have to give the truck a lot of gas and let out the clutch slowly just to start of. Other than that the clutch doesn't slip or anything, just have problems with starting off.
Anyone have any suggestions? Could it need adjusting and if so how? Is it just geared so high that you need to give it a lot of gas to take off?
I just purchased the truck and I am trying to figure out how to fix this problem.
Thank You!
Anyone have any suggestions? Could it need adjusting and if so how? Is it just geared so high that you need to give it a lot of gas to take off?
I just purchased the truck and I am trying to figure out how to fix this problem.
Thank You!
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 5,643
Likes: 8
From: NE Texas
Help! Clutch question??
If I remember correctly, the '86 still had a manual clutch with a "Z" bracket from the frame to bell housing, right? If so, the two plastic (split) bushings (one on each end of bracket) might be worn out or missing. This can cause too much play in the clutch. Check that out first. If have a Haynes or Chilton's it will give you an exploded view of what I am talking about.
Check out this link: and just type in your truck.
Check out this link: and just type in your truck.
Senior User
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 274
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From: Charlotte
Help! Clutch question??
Your truck has a hydraulic clutch which does not allow you to adjust it like the older trucks with a clutch cable. Usually when the clutch engages very low you have a worn out clutch.
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 7,157
Likes: 1
From: Central Kali
Help! Clutch question??
Very stiff sounds like someone put in a racing type clutch in it. I did this once, only once. 
I would pull it out and replace it. Use a diaphram type clutch. They are smoother and easier to push in.
I would pull it out and replace it. Use a diaphram type clutch. They are smoother and easier to push in.
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Freshman User
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 45
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From: Piedmont
Help! Clutch question??
Thank you everyone for the help. Hope the clutch isn't worn out, I always thought if it was then the clutch would fill "spongy" or weak and my is VERY stiff? I am pretty sure it isn't a racing clutch because it was used as a daily driver by the previous owner for almost 17 yrs. and the truck looks the same as the day he bought (completely stock) it.
Thanks again and let me know if anyone has some more suggestions.
Thanks again and let me know if anyone has some more suggestions.
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 851
Likes: 1
Help! Clutch question??
I've got a 86 302EFI that is the same way, I'll be willing to bet your Geared so high is the cause of it. I can Running highway Speeds at 75+MPH in 3rd, Where most trucks in 4th gear are screaming to ease off the gas. Once you get use to the truck you'll start liking the tranny/gear combo. It'll still allow you to pull anything a 1/2ton will allow you to pull, Just takes a bit to build it's speed then it's gone. The best thing I clocked right at 20MPG The other Day coming back on a lil over 400mile round trip. Just ain't good in City MPG till ya learn the gears to stay in at lower speeds.
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Freshman User
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 45
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From: Piedmont
Help! Clutch question??
Thanks for the help. I think that is what the deal is plus the fact that there is something wrong with the truck while under a load. The engine is really having problems running correctly (it misses like crazy in all gears). I have replaced the plugs, wires, distibutor, rotor button, pcv valve, both fuel filters and still all kinds of problems. I am thinking it is either the catalatic converter or maybe a vacuum leak. It likes to suck exhuast back in after you let of the gas, then it makes a "Puff" sound. This could be causing the problems with the truck running correctly from a start etc.
Thanks.
Thanks.
