I've got 144k on the original. I've always been told that the rpms will increase and the car won't accelerate, but that's not what's happening.

From a stop, I begin releasing the clutch and the car starts to move. About half way through releasing the clutch, the car jumps in to gear. It makes for a pretty jerky start. (and my buddies rag on me cause they think i cant drive stick ) I also notice it going into 2nd but not so much after that. I thought it might be a cold car, cold weather, or running accessories but it's none of those. It just does it when it wants to for a couple days at a time. And the clutch feels very solid when it's not doing this. Has anyone else experienced this? Thanks.

 

I think you may be doing what is called "dumping the clutch." It is a common occurrence in people's cars with 5spd, until they get driving it down to a science. What you are doing is giving it enough gas and letting out the pedal just enough that you are feeling it move(slipping the clutch......not good for it, by the way). I think, from what it sounds, you might be "dumping" the rest of the clutch out while constantly giving it more gas. This would cause a jerky start every time. I know every clutch is different...you just have to get used to it. Try either moving your seat up or back...you may not be in the right position for driving it. I know when My brother has driven my car and moved my seat, I cannot drive mine just how I am supposed to(right at first) until I get the seat where it is comfortable for me to use the clutch. Try that out and let me know.

 

get up to 3000rpm in 5th and floor it, if the tach stays in the same spot for a few seconds before it starts to rise, then you have a slipping clutch

Ian

 

no it doesn't do that.



Brudaddy, I shoulda been more clear. When I engage the clutch normally (by not (what you call) slipping the clutch) it's very sensitive and difficult to get a smooth start. I did the slipping the clutch thing to pinpoint where wihtin the release it jumps. And it doesn't always do this. Maybe she's just moody somedays.

 

I don't know then, man. I gave it my shot. I am still learning too.

Bump for ya...

 

What you're describing almost sounds like 'clutch chatter'. I had this when my input shaft bearings were on their way out.

Pop your hood, and have someone watch as you (slowly) start to take off...does your engine shake like crazy?

 

I definetly know what a slipping clutch feels like. Mine is finally on its way out at 158,000. I notice it the most in 3,4, and 5. If you have it at about 3,000 rpms in 3rd and hit the gas to the floor watch the tach and speedo. If the tach moves at all without the speedo moving, then your clutch is on its way out. Mine started doing this very minimally at first but now its really bad. 3k rpms seems to be the best place for it to slip.

Andrew

 

Thanks for the replies. I'll have someone watch the engine, but wouldn't I feel it if it was shaking like crazy. Also I noticed when it is doing this, it's worse with the heat on. When I turn the heater off it's not quite so bad.

Then again, today the clutch is engaging perfectly. Tomorrow...who knows? Oh well, I'll deal. Thanks again.