Can't get her into gear!

all1knew

Member

Feb 15, 2004

64

0

7

Macomb, IL - 61455

Dec 25, 2011

#1

• Dec 25, 2011

• #1

Hello all,

I have a standard T-5 trans and Centerforce dual-friction clutch with a Hurst short-throw shifter. So, unless I shut the car off and put it into first gear and then fire it up, I can't shift. When the motor is running, I can not shift into first gear. When I do start the car in first gear, I can't get it into second gear with the motor running. What's going on exactly?

Thanks,

Bill

 

need4spd90

Member

Jun 3, 2008

106

6

19

Mountain Top, PA

Dec 25, 2011

#2

• Dec 25, 2011

• #2

sounds like the clutch isnt disengaging...do you have an adjustable cable setup?

 

all1knew

Member

Feb 15, 2004

64

0

7

Macomb, IL - 61455

Dec 25, 2011

#3

• Dec 25, 2011

• #3

Can't say that I do......

So this kit would solve my problem more than likely, correct?

http://www.uprproducts.com/mustang-79-silver-clutch-quadrant-cable-firewall-adjuster-kit.html

Thanks for the reply!

Bill

 

jrichker

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Dublin GA

Dec 25, 2011

#4

• Dec 25, 2011

• #4

Clutch adjustment
Do the clutch adjustment first before considering any other problems. With the stock plastic quadrant and cable, pull up on the clutch pedal until it comes upward toward you. It will make a ratcheting sound as the self adjuster works.To release to tension of the stock quadrant, use a screwdriver to lift the ratchet paw up and out of engagement with the quadrant teeth.

A binding clutch cable will make the clutch very stiff. If the cable is misrouted or has gotten too close to the exhaust, it will definitely bind.

Clutch pedal adjustment with aftermarket quadrant and cable: I like to have the clutch completely disengaged and still have about 1.5” travel left before the pedal hits the floor. This means that I have only about 1” of free play at the top before the pedal starts to disengage the clutch. Keep in mind that these figures are all approximate. When properly adjusted, there will not be any slack in the clutch cable. You will have 4-15 lbs preload on the clutch cable.

The quadrant needs to be replaced if you use any type of aftermarket cable or adjuster. My preference is a Ford Racing quadrant, adjustable cable and Steeda firewall adjuster. The adjustable Ford Racing cable is just as good as the stock OEM cable. It allows a greater range of adjustment than a stock cable with a aftermarket quadrant and firewall adjuster. Combined with the Steeda adjuster, it lets you set the initial cable preload and then fine tune the clutch engagement point to your liking without getting under the car.

Using a stock OEM cable, firewall adjuster and a single hook quadrant may result in not having any free pedal travel before the clutch starts to disengage. I found this out the hard way.

The binding common to adjustable cables is often due to misplacement of the adjusting nuts on the fork end of the cable. This will also cause the cable to wear and fray. Both nuts should be on the back side of the fork so that the domed nut faces the fork and the other nut serves as jam or locknut to the domed nut.

 

all1knew

Member

Feb 15, 2004

64

0

7

Macomb, IL - 61455

Dec 26, 2011

#5

• Dec 26, 2011

• #5

Got it all worked out with a clutch adjustment. Thanks to all who helped!