Bfg

I completed a conversion from automatic to Muncie 4 sp. on my 65 442. When I push the clutch in it hardly has any feel to it until it's nearly to the floor. And when the clutch does ingage it squeals. Is there an adjustment that needs to be made. Could the throw out bearing be put in wrong, I thought I had everything assembled correctly but there is a chance that I over looked something. Need some expert advice before I pull the trans to look things over. Thank you.

oldcutlass

You need to adjust the clutch pedal free play so there is only an inch at the top of the pedal. This is done using the actuator rod that runs from the z bar to the throw out bearing fork.

Bfg

Ok, I'll try that but what would cause the squealing when the clutch is applied?

Oldsmaniac

Make sure your fork and throw out bearing are new.

Bfg

New clutch, fork and throw out bearing

oldcutlass

Did you replace the pilot bearing?

RandyS

A squeal is usually caused by the Throw Out Bearing.

Bfg

I had the crank drilled for a pilot bearing, it is a new throw out bearing. Is it possible to have a faulty throw out bearing? And then there is a chance the throw out bearing was put in backwards. Would I be able to see if the bearing was installed properly through the inspection cover? I removed the rubber boot for the clutch fork to see if I could see if the throw out bearing was in right but couldn't see it.

oldcutlass

You should be able to see it.

joe_padavano

And you're sure the hole was machined to the proper concentricity requirements? Did you lube the throwout bearing and the fingers on the clutch fork that engage with it?

Bfg

I assume the pilot hole was drilled to proper specs. It was done by a reputable Olds rebuilder. The throw out bearing and fork were lubed. Just looking for a easy solution before I have to pull the trans to see what's wrong.

joe_padavano

There are only so many possible causes for squeaking that only happens when you press on the clutch pedal.

1) Bad pilot bearing
2) Pilot bearing hole not concentric with crank
3) Trans or bellhousing not concentric with crank
4) Bad or dry throwout bearing
5) Clutch not releasing fully

Bfg

I guess I'll try adjusting the clutch rod first and then proceed to pull the trans in nothing else works. Thanks for all of your replys.

Bfg

Joe, if the pilot bearing was out of concentricity wouldn't it make noise constantly? The squeal only occurs when the clutch is applied.

joe_padavano

The pilot bearing only rotates when the clutch pedal is pressed. When the clutch is engaged, there had better not be any motion between the crank and input shaft.

joe_padavano

By the way, did you use a factory style pilot bearing or a bushing?

Bfg

I believe a bushing was installed. What would be the pros and cons?

droldsmorland

Is the fork on the right side of the TO bearing?
Is the TO bearing installed in the correct direction?
Is the TO bearing matched to the clutch?
Is the disc directional? If so is it installed in the right direction?
Is it a diaphragm style clutch? If so are the diaphragm springs straight where the TO bearing rides or do they curve in?
What brand is the clutch?

Bfg

I will check the following things you mentioned. Thank you.