Clutch Chatter

[ottsv_7]

Hi,

My Dad has an 85 Dodge 1/2 ton with a 318 and 833 OD trans. Sometimes when engaging the clutch, the truck chatters/shudders. This chattering only occurs when in 1st gear, the truck is at a complete stop (or very close to a complete stop) and we're trying to start moving. We've replaced the clutch and pressure plate, but this hasn't helped. The last time the engine was rebuilt we also checked the fly wheel for flatness using a straight edge and feeler gauges and didn't see any problems there. But I'm wondering if there is still a problem with the fly wheel that the straight edge/feeler gauges didn't reveal?? It doesn't seem to matter whether or not the trans is cold or at operating temp or if the bed is loaded up or empty. The truck is completely stock.

Any info or ideas you guys might have would be great!!

Thanks in advance
Steve

[John Kunkel]

The flywheel should be resurfaced each time the disc/pressure plate is replaced, even though it's flat is can still be the source of chatter.

Have you checked your engine and transmision mounts for condition? Deteriorated mounts can contribute to clutch chatter.

[dwc43]

Originally Posted by ottsv_7

Hi,

My Dad has an 85 Dodge 1/2 ton with a 318 and 833 OD trans. Sometimes when engaging the clutch, the truck chatters/shudders. This chattering only occurs when in 1st gear, the truck is at a complete stop (or very close to a complete stop) and we're trying to start moving. We've replaced the clutch and pressure plate, but this hasn't helped. The last time the engine was rebuilt we also checked the fly wheel for flatness using a straight edge and feeler gauges and didn't see any problems there. But I'm wondering if there is still a problem with the fly wheel that the straight edge/feeler gauges didn't reveal?? It doesn't seem to matter whether or not the trans is cold or at operating temp or if the bed is loaded up or empty. The truck is completely stock.

Any info or ideas you guys might have would be great!!

Thanks in advance
Steve

Did not red the instructions with your new clutch did ya. Cutting corners wont work. You must resurface the flywheel every time you replace a clutch. Did you notice and heat cracks or dark colors from where a old clutch may have slipped? If so that's causing your problem. You'll have too pull the tranny and repalce the clutch disc and resurface the flywheel to get it fixed right.

[Dave 572]

I'm building a 383/452 stroker-4 speed combo with all new parts.Will a new flywheel need to be resurfaced? What other things should be checked for problems during assembly?

[dwc43]

New flywheels do not need to be surfaced. THey do need cleaning with some mineral spirits or carb or brake cleaner. THey coat them just like they do brake drums to keep them from rusting.

[dasgift]

Brake cleaner is formulated to leave no residue. IMO brake clean would be my only choice. after you spray the piece, wipe it with a clean cloth or rag. if you don't wipe it, it may cut the coating and when the brake clean evaporates it will leave the coating behind.

Always and i mean always resurface used flywheels. new units do not need to be cut like dwc said. it also helps with the break in