clutch cable adjusting-no answer from search

[clifdawg]

As you can see in my sig., I have a Centerforce dual friction clutch in a world class (tremec) t-5. My throwout bearing is also from c-force and my fork is stock. I have an adj. cable, firewall adj., and quadrant all from UPR. This is my prob: I know I have to have a little play in my cable so that I don't burn up my throwout bearing. So, I adjust the cable at the fork so that I can wiggle the fork just a bit. I let the car back down, fire her up and clutch won't engage/won't go in gear. So, then, I move to my firewall adj. and adj. out until my clutch engagement feels right. I then get under car again to check play...NONE! From there, my efforts keep goin in the same circle and I can never seem to satisfy cable play and clutch engagement together. It's really aggravating and I would very much appreciate some advice. I gotta get her on the road. I started on this project April/June, and haven't been able to finish her yet because of college and a budget, but the cable adjustment is really slowing me down right now. Thanks!
-Clifton

 

[83GT289]

when it's properly adjusted there won't be any play under the car. I little play at the pedal is ok but not under the car. I've been told that having to have play in the cable is actually a misconception as long as it is adjusted to where it properly engages/disengages.

J>

 

[04sleeper]

Yes. In order for it to be adjusted right it is supposed to have tension on it. Just not too much where the clutch is engaged all the time.
This is normal.

 

[clifdawg]

Another ? Just trying to check the validity of your answers b/c I've been told by several people, locally, such as mustang owners, racecar drivers, the centerforce instructions, and my dad, who is not a mustang expert, but a pretty good mechanic...that I HAVE to have play (not a lot, just a tid bit of a nudge) so that the throwout bearing is not turning at all times. The t-out bearing can turn without the clutch engaging, which will burn it up...Do you have manuals and how long has your t-out bearing lasted w/o any tension. Thanks for your help.
-Clifton

 

[JB66]

The OEM throwout bearing was designed for constant running. Check with the manufacturer of your part for help.

 

[morrisracing]

clifdawg, Have someone push the clutch pedal while you watch. Make sure that the firewall is not flexing or is cracked where the cable goes through it. Just went through this same problem on a 90 gt. The firewall was cracked

 

[jrichker]

The OEM throwout bearing was designed for constant running. Check with the manufacturer of your part for help.

Absolutely right on target!