M6 transmission clutch free play specification

[Graefen]

I have a '52 Chrysler Saratoga with the M6 "Fluid Matic" transmission.    One would assume there should be some amount of free play for the clutch pedal movement.  I can't find a spec anywhere including in my '53 Chrysler Shop Manual.

 

Had the linkage out today with the turnbuckle so I could clean up the threads and apply anti-sieze and make it possible to do the adjustment.   Now I just need a measurement.   Since I bought the car there has been NO freeplay.   As of late today there is too much.  

 

What did the factory have in mind here?   Thank you.

[MarcDeSoto]

My DeSoto 46-50 manual says the free play at the pedal should be 1".  That's for all MoPar cars standard trans. or semi-automatic.  To adjust the clutch pedal free play, turn the release fork rod adjusting nut until the pedal has 1 inch free play.  The clutch pedal location is controlled by a set screw and lock nut.  It controls the clearance between the toe board and the pedal.  

[Graefen]

Thanks Marc.  I presume that pedal movementwould stay the same.   Helps greatly to hear ALL transmissions '46-50 are the same.    The '52 linkage however is definitely different from your description.

[Dodgeb4ya]

1" of free play measured at the pedal pad is correct.

[Sniper]

Free play is not my preferred method, it's easy to do though.  The problem with free play is that any slop in the linkage ends up being part of that measurement and the plate departure lessens.  I prefer to measure clutch plate departure, usually shoot for .060", and let the free play be what it is.

[Graefen]

How would I gauge that in an M6 Fluid Matic?

[MarcDeSoto]

Well, you could unhook the clutch fork rod return spring and measure the play at the fork rod.  It should be 5/32" which will create 1" free play at the pedal.  At least that's how you do on my 48 DeSoto.  If your model is different, consult your shop manual.  

 

This filmstrip might give you some idea how to do it, even if yours is a later year.  https://mymopar.com/mtsc-1948-volume-2-4-a-good-man-in-the-clutch/

Edited March 6, 2023 by MarcDeSoto

[Dodgeb4ya]

3 hours ago, Graefen said:

How would I gauge that in an M6 Fluid Matic?

You need to remove the lower clutch housing on your Saratoga Fluid-Matic to see and check for the gap between the clutch disc and pressure plate.

Removing the lower clutch housing cast iron cover to do this way of measurement is not a quick and simple job on the Ssratoga.

[Graefen]

Mr Tech to the rescue, thanks.