CLUTCH FORK TROUBLES

[ccallahan0218]

Hi all, new here and new to working on these cars -

Recently acquired a project 73 challenger..440 w/ a newer 833 OD. Current project is setting up the clutch fork on the existing TO bearing. I purchased THIS fork through brewers as I have an E body..with a big block.

I'm struggling (a) getting the fork retainer thru the hole on the pivot and (b) onto the TO bearing. It seems like the fork is JUST not wide enough to slip fully into the springs on the TO bearing. Tried to capture this in the pictures attached.

Seeing as the trans (Obviously) is not original to the car..should I have bought a different fork (and different pivot)? I know there are varying fork lengths and pivot styles.

Thanks in advance

 

[ccallahan0218]

Also, I believe the pivot needs to be installed prior to fork installation, these pictures are me test-fitting the fork onto the bearing.

 

[terrywalker]

To me, it looks like the fork is on the throw out bearing correctly. I've usually have the clutch fork on the pivot and the bearing installed prior to sliding in the transmission. If I understand you correctly, the fork is not on the pivot in the photos. Unfortunately, if there's not enough play, you may need to back the transmission out. It's been over 15 years since I've done a clutch.
Terry W.

 

[Xcudame]

Ccallahan0218, be sure to post on the Welcome Wagon to introduce yourself and post some pictures of your 73 Challenger. Also, do you have a 73 factory Shop manual! Section 6 is all about clutches. What you're doing is a little outside normal as only small blocks with 4-spds were available in 73. But Big blocks have been installed. Folks much more experienced with 440/4-spds should chime in soon! And Brewers is always helpful as well!

 

[ccallahan0218]

Ccallahan0218, be sure to post on the Welcome Wagon to introduce yourself and post some pictures of your 73 Challenger. Also, do you have a 73 factory Shop manual! Section 6 is all about clutches. What you're doing is a little outside normal as only small blocks with 4-spds were available in 73. But Big blocks have been installed. Folks much more experienced with 440/4-spds should chime in soon! And Brewers is always helpful as well!

Thanks for your reply..I'll be sure to do so soon - was just getting a little frustrated at this issue and wanted to resolve it before my wallet gets too light lol. Brewer's has been a great resource so far.

 

[ccallahan0218]

To me, it looks like the fork is on the throw out bearing correctly. I've usually have the clutch fork on the pivot and the bearing installed prior to sliding in the transmission. If I understand you correctly, the fork is not on the pivot in the photos. Unfortunately, if there's not enough play, you may need to back the transmission out. It's been over 15 years since I've done a clutch.
Terry W.

Shouldn't the fork "fingers" be firmly locked farther into the springs rather than just resting on those "ears"? Maybe I'm imagining it wrong - and I've heard mixed answers if the trans has to be shifted. If It's necessary, so be it lol.

Thanks for your .02

 

[Steve340]

The thrust bearing is pretty floppy on the release fork until you get it on the gearbox. The bearing is supported by the front bearing housing of the gearbox and is only levered forward by the release fork.
You might be best to try this all together on the gearbox to make sure it works without binding up. Also grease up all the wear parts before final install.
I believe the big block also uses a different clutch fork pivot.
Don't forget there is a pilot bearing in the rear of the crankshaft.

 

[terrywalker]

Those pads on the clutch fork sit on the ears on the bearing. If I remember correctly, the curved spring clips ends just go over the clutch fork ears on the back and the assembly pivots easily. If the other pad on fork that isn't visible in photos is like the one we can see, it's okay then. I put a little grease on those rub points on fork/ bearing pads. I wish I were home so I could show you the assembly I have out of the car. Someone else may have a fork and bearing out of a car to photograph for you.

 

[Bret Schneider]

Does this help?

4 spd fork clutch install

 

[terrywalker]

Good photos showing fork/bearing.
Terry W