3rd gear knock Updated 6-5-12

[James Rogers]

Kevin, you can pull the housing while the engine is in the car but, I don't see how it could make the noise. The housing is stationary and don't move unless it is broke to hell.

As long as the transmission is installed and the input shaft is in the pilot bearing, it could make a noise. This is the only part that is directly affected by the clutch disk and the input shaft at the same time. Not having the driveshaft attached will only change the sound because of the difference in pressure on the input shaft. Side forces in first and second might keep the input pushed into a position that would keep the bearing from making any noise. Pushing the clutch in would stop the input from turning and possibly stop the noise. Since the noise is only in third and not even when the tranny is in neutral I would check it next time you pull the tranny. Simple check, just pull the 12 bolts out of the clutch housing (pressure plate) and turn it. Any roughness could cause a terrible noise even if it feels pretty smooth. It should be replaced if any roughness is felt or just for the necessity since it is a 5$ bearing and is probably available locally at some parts distributors or bearing houses. Ask for part number A-6203 or just plain 6203.

[James Rogers]

Originally Posted by MrTube

James, wouldn't the pilot bearing only make noise when the clutch is disengaged / slipping?

Probably but it is such an easy check and eliminates that part. If someone suspects the flywheel housing, why not the pilot.

[Tom Wesenberg]

I would pull the tranny and run it. At least this could eliminate the tranny as the cause. Just don't step on the clutch, as the disc can move sideways.

[James Rogers]

Originally Posted by Tom Wesenberg

I would pull the tranny and run it. At least this could eliminate the tranny as the cause. Just don't step on the clutch, as the disc can move sideways.

Tom, the clutch pedal and throwout bearing comes out with the tranny.

[Kevin - Illinois]

I would assume that if I pull the tranny I can leave off the clutch housing and run the motor. I'll try that and run the motor.

What if afterward I pull the tranny and pull the pressure plate to check the pilot bearing as well. How hard is it to line up the clutch and pressure plate using the recommended tool while the engine is in the car?

I'm completely at a loss as to why I would want to pull the flywheel housing as suggested. The motor has to be pulled to do it right as the motor mounts bolt to it. If I pull the engine I would suggest that I send it and the tranny back (he built that as well) and let the rebuilder do the sorting as I paid for a tranny and long block.

[CarlG]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

Originally Posted by Kevin - Illinois

... How hard is it to line up the clutch and pressure plate using the recommended tool while the engine is in the car?...

Using this tool it's not difficult at all. It plugs into the pilot bearing just like the tranny would.

[H. L. Chauvin]

Kevin,

I think it is suggested to remove the transmission & the CLUTCH HOUSING; not to remove the FLYWHEEL HOUSING.

From rear of car to front, the transmission is connected to the clutch housing; the clutch housing is connected to the flywheel housing; & the flywheel housing is connected to the rear of the engine block

After removal of the transmission, the clutch housing can be removed.

I would never try to keep the engine in the car while trying to remove the flywheel housing.

[Kevin - Illinois]

He meant the clutch housing. I'll do that like I said and run the engine. No big deal, I've had it off 4 times now. My Bride is getting real good at helping by jacking the transmission and such. She's even searching Fordbarn and Ahooga while I'm at work. She wants it fixed so we can start going to shows again.

[gweilbaker]

Hi Kevin,
Nice to meet you at Sharon. This maybe too late or you have done this, did you run it without the starter? It would eliminate the possibility of the ring gear touching the modern bendix.

Just throwing it out there,
GW

[H. L. Chauvin]

Kevin,

In #28 above:

"After removal of the transmission, the clutch housing can be removed".

should read:

"After removal of the clutch housing with the transmission attached, the transmission can be removed from the clutch housing, "only" if necessary to remove it."

You are so blessed to have such a devoted, caring wife to help meet your goals in life.

We need you both to keep educating us with what you find in your next test!