bent clutch fork?

[1fast97gsx]

How common is it to bend this? I don't really think this is my problem, but I figured I'd ask. I'm running a FULLY rebuilt oem trans and it started grinding second gear pretty bad and sometimes going into reverse too. The other gears can be a pita to get into too from time to time, but they don't grind. It just takes a little force to get them to go in. I have gotten on the throttle a few times from a roll with it, but never ran it at the track yet and only launched it 4-5 times so far too so I don't think I really broke the trans yet. I'm going to try adjusting the clutch but I don't think that's my problem really. What else could it be besides a misadjusted clutch, bent clutch fork, or really something internally? The clutch is a 2600 but it really doesn't feel as hard to push down as I thought. Should I drain the trans fluid and look for any certain color or metal shavings or anything?

 

[jeff01]

If you use 2600 or higher you will bend your shiftfork. Your symtom will be that you will not get full disengagement of the clutch I.E. grinding into every gear. Taboo makes an excellent replacement that will cure this.

 

[1fast97gsx]

well I'm only grinding second so I don't think that's my problem. I will replace it though jsut to be safe while the trans is off again.

 

[jeff01]

I had some success with a longer slave rod. It's kind of a bandaid fix but you can install it in 10 minutes. Also how is your clutch linkage. 2600's eat clutch linkages also. I had to switch to brass bushings and a welded pedal to get the ACT clutches to work(also the upgraded shift fork as mentioned previously).

 

[ecstasytsi]

Im pretty sure you cant bend the actual shif fork. Its either straight or broken in half. Push your clutch in and let it back up, then try to pull your pedal up with you hand. If it comes up then your clutch lever that connects to you master cylinder is worn out. You will have to pull the pedal assembly and replace it with a new one (it helps to have the new one welded so this doesnt happen again). I have also replaced my slave cylinder rod with a shaved bolt that is 1/4" longer.

 

[1fast97gsx]

alright pulled the trans off and it's definitly something inside it. Shift fork was still in 1 piece. What do you mean by "clutch linkage"?

 

[jeff01]

My Clutch fork was bent not broke. It flexes every shift because it's not made to push that much pressure. Another culprit is the pivot ball( look at the back side of the clutch fork, mine was all wallowed out from the pivot ball). Next get under the dash and move the clutch pedal with your hand while watching the clutch actuator rod that goes into the master cylinder. As you push the pedal the rod should move, if the rod does not move with the pedal there is slop in your linkage and it will have to be replaced. If any of this does not make sense you can call me @7708557681. I've been through all this recently.

 

[1fast97gsx]

ok thanks