Clutch problem?

[Peter C]

This question relates to my W123 Merc 230E.

 

To avoid a jerky gear change I need to release the clutch pedal gradually and gently. Releasing the clutch pedal in the normal way would result in a jolt and a clunk from the rear end.

 

I recently had the release bearing renewed and the clutch slave cylinder is also new. The clutch release hydraulic system is working fine.

 

Could it be that the fingers on the 25 year old pressure plate have lost their spring and are causing the clutch to engage too abruptly? I believe that this is known as a fierce clutch engagement.

 

If I am barking up the wrong tree, any ideas what could be causing the too sudden clutch take up?

 

Cheers guys!

[dollywobbler]

Could be najjered engine mounts. What happens if you stamp on the throttle or lift off suddenly?

[Tayne]

.

[Peter C]

Could be najjered engine mounts. What happens if you stamp on the throttle or lift off suddenly?

The engine mounts are tired and the engine does rock a fair bit on (smooth) idle, however on / off throttle does not result in jerks or clunks.

[Peter C]

Could this clunk from the rear end be a bush/ball/joint/uj or something thats shot cuasing a bang when drive is taken up?

The clunk only occurs when the clutch is released abruptly - see above!

[red5]

Single piece prop-shaft ? Centre rubber bush worn ?

[Peter C]

Single piece prop-shaft ? Centre rubber bush worn ?

Single piece with rubber doughnut couplings (renewed) at the front and rear.

[red5]

I would have another look at the engine/gearbox mountings then. Not sure if they are/were fitted with 'hydraulic' type engine mountings - they tend to knock under sharp loading when worn. Failing that drive to bewdley for a road test.

[Owain-328i]

Rear subframe bushes, engine mounts, propshaft bearing, damaged flywheel, all possibilities

[meggersdog]

The estates have some sort of self levelling device with a ball joint on top of the rear axle,don't know if the saloons have this but a worn joint on the axle might cause it.

[Peter C]

Cheers guys.First things first I'm going to replace the engine mounts.Peter C