noise in clutch

[stevenelle]

A new noise appeared suddenly today. When clutch pedal is depressed, sort of a rubbing noise. Not bad enough to call a grind, but bad enough to know something has happened. It still shifts and drives fine. Noise only happens when clutch is depressed no matter whether moving or not. Can a throwout bearing go bad suddenly. The throwout bearing still spins by hand. Any advice is appreciated.

[Young Ed]

Any noise with the clutch pedal out and the tranny in neutral? Sometimes the front bearing can start going out.

[Merle Coggins]

That's what it sounds like to me. I once had a truck that went through 2 throw out bearings during the time I was driving it. Failures in the hydraulic clutch system was the culprit, as far as I was concerned. It only emmited that sound when the clutch pedal was depressed. Unfortunetly, when it happened to me, I was always several hundred miles from home. I was able to limp it home with clutchless shifting as much as possible. I also noticed a different feel in the pedal just before it "sounded off". Once the bearing fails it will grind the two races together whenever pressure is applied. I suggest you replace it as soon as possible.

I think you could get it out without removing the clutch. Just pull the trans and you should be able to get it out. I also recommend replacing the small pull back spring when you replace the bearing. It helps hold the bearing away from the clutch arms. If it doesn't pull fully away from the clutch it may continue to spin, which will shorten it's life.

Good luck,

Merle

[Rich Gengo]

Could also be the pilot bearing in the end of crankshaft. That will usually make noise when you're stopped in gear with your foot on the clutch.