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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Clutch problem after winter layup.

Finally got around to removing axle stands and moving the Midget. Probably not going far for awhile though!!
Trying to concentrate on routine matters the bigger picture can get you down.
I have a clutch issue. Completed an engine out and gearbox recon last summer. All went to plan and had some vibration free runs out in the autumn. Car has been started periodically this winter. Warmed through then tucked up again.
Started fine today but clutch would not release to allow gear selection. Plenty of clutch 'feel'. Confirmed by reaching under car and checking clutch lever movement. Could clutch plates be 'stuck' causing front of gearbox to turn? Fitted new clutch assembly when engine out.
Any thoughts please.
David
David Lewis

yes the clutch plate has stuck to the flywheel or cover plate. Try running the engine so everything gets warm. Switch off, select top and depress clutch pedal. Try to start the engine. It usually goes with a jolt and its free.
Bob Beaumont

Sounds like the clutch driven plate is stuck to the flyweel. It MAY free itself if you put the car in first gear, hand brake hard on, hold the clutch pedal down to the floor, and engage the starter motor. This should free a sticking clutch plate, but be prepared for it to leap forwards if it fires up
GuyW

It does sound like the clutch is stuck. I’ve heard of people wedging the clutch pedal down overnight to see if it comes unstuck - though I can’t see how that works if it’s stuck to the flywheel.
Sometimes holding the clutch down and doing some hard revving can free it - that what I do on my old Triumph.
Or try pulling the car (gently!) with another vehicle while in gear and holding the clutch down?
I’m sure there will be other suggestions!

One thing I do when starting up in the winter is to put it in gear and give the clutch a good bite to avoid it sticking. Sorry for the hindsight suggestion!
John Payne

Many thanks for the prompt replies. There appears to be a consensus!! A rare beast these days. I'll report back.
David Lewis

Jack up the back of the car. Put it on stands and chock the front wheels.
Start the car in high gear. Give it some revs to get the wheels spinning well. Pump the clutch a few times and HOLD IT DOWN and hit the brake. HARD.
Not for the faint hearted but works.

Standard OP for BMC front wheel drives. (Except for jacking up the back obvs).
Greybeard

Well. Clutch is released!!! Fortunately I achieved desired result without reference to your solution Greybeard!! I am not ordinarily 'faint hearted' or risk averse but..............
Many thanks to all. Keep focusing on the small things. Further more, stay in your f***ing shed / garage Safest place.
David Lewis

David

What method worked? I have to free my clutch off too after car being laid up for a while (and had stuck just before lockdown in March the last time I could get to the car).i note Greybeard's drastic measure as the if all else fails method.

Cheers
Mike
M Wood

Ive had a "stuck" clutch twice and can confirm that getting engine hot and then wedging clutch pedal down overnight did free it off.
Since my car is in a fairly tight space in my garage at the bottom of a sloping drive any method that may cause the car to leap forward is not the preferred method, nor is pushing it out of the garage. Not sure why my method works, but I assume different rates of expansion of different materials.
Colin
C Martin

another vote for heat; had to do this years ago on a Porsche 924 race car that was parked all winter. Found a good access hole in the bellhousing and poked a hairdryer nozzle into it, left it running for about an hour, job done.
David Smith

This thread was discussed between 12/04/2020 and 01/06/2020

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