57 f100 6cyl 3 speed on the tree issue
 

Finally able to tinker with the truck I pulled home Saturday. Needed exhaust and had a 'clutch' issue.

Exhaust done, but the trans issue has me stumped. Let me preface this by saying this is my first vehicle with a 3 on the tree.

The pedal is rock hard and won't depress. I bled the pedal and was able to see that the pedal moved and pushed fluid to the slave cylinder.

I'm about to put it on some jack stands to get under her to check the slave cylinder operation and see if the release lever is free.

Normally, I'd be ok with this plan of attack, but something is strange. I tried to see if it was free by putting it in gear (I think) and tapping the starter.

Nothing.. no movement... tried each position.. nothing. truck even runs with it 'in gear'.

What are the odds, the pressure plate springs failed, keeping the clutch disengaged while the slave cylinder froze keeping the pedal hard?

it's currently sitting in my gravel driveway, so while I guess I could drop the trans, it won't be easy or fun.

Ideas?

Mike

Update: Looks like a slave cylinder issue. Bleed the cylinder and tap the rod and it slid back in. Hitting up the parts stores for a replacement. Looks like I need to order it.

Good luck.

The slave cylinder would have to be stuck in the extended position to keep the clutch disengaged. If you remove the slave cylinder, it should allow the clutch to engage. Careful it will be in a bind if this theory is correct. Also depending on how long it has been like this, the springs on the clutch may be shot and not want to hold very well.

If the slave cylinder is not stuck in the extended position, there is a clutch issue. Something is keeping the pressure plate from engaging. Could be several different things, all require dropping the transmission.

Thanks Walston. I went under yesterday afternoon. Opened the bleed valve on the slave and gave the release lever a few taps. It disengaged the clutch.

Looks like the good news is that the slave cylinder is only $32... The bad news is I want to replace that before taking the trans out to look at the clutch disk (and snow is on the way).

Joy.

I can't wait to be able to drive it.

Replace the slave and take it for a test when things thaw out, the clutch may be fine. Nice thing is these little 3 spds are easy to pull and change the clutch if needed.