Noisy Clutch

[jmachling]

I've just had an MR2 turbo imported from Japan and it appears it has an uprated clutch of some description. However, it makes a grinding sound when the pedal is depressed. I've tried adjusting the biting point as far as I dare without it slipping, but it has made no difference to the noise.

I realise there is probably no simple answer, but I have read in various places that it's normal for some types of clutches to be a bit noisy. Is this right? If so I'll just put up with it.

I'm just wondering if it's dragging a bit - my reason being it isn't always easy to get into gear (although the MR2 box is characteristically notchy). Not easy to diagnose though as I reckon the 'box needs an oil change - having synchro issues too!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Trooper2]

Throw-out bearing is gone.

[dern]

Trooper2 said:

Throw-out bearing is gone.

That would be my guess too. Does it rumble or actually grind? If it's the latter I'd get it sorted very soon but if it's the latter I'd leave it.

[jmachling]

Thanks for the info guys!

That was my initial thought too, but then I read that worn release/throw-out bearings tend to be noisy when the pedal is released rather than when it's depressed, which confused me!

Either way, sounds like spanner time! Having heard how long it takes to get the box off/on on the MR2 it may be simpler and cheaper in the long run to get a new clutch/bearing fitted - at least I'll know what I've got in there then!