Clutch problem

[tvrlee]

Hi all,

I've not been on here for a long time but could do with some help.

I have been doing a full body off refurb and have got to the point of starting the engine, I have been turning it over on the key to keep it all lubricated and prime the oil pump etc. Whilst doing this I have noticed smoking coming from the gearbox bell housing, I assume its the clutch which was replaced while the engine was out.

Anyone have any ideas as to what it could be? It may well be something stupid like me installing the clutch incorrectly. I don't really want to the have to drop the gear box if I can help it.

I have also noticed some coolant dripping from the gearbox area and it looks like its pooling on the valley gasket, any ideas?

I aim to start it this weekend but don't want to wreck it by not sorting any potential issues first.


Thanks in advance.

Edited by tvrlee on Monday 4th December 08:48

[Pagey430]

could it just be a hot starter motor at this stage? and nipping up the coolant hoses either end of the valley?

Assuming you've got oil pressure I'd go for a start and keep ears and eyes peeled!

[tvrlee]

Pagey430 said:

could it just be a hot starter motor at this stage? and nipping up the coolant hoses either end of the valley?

Assuming you've got oil pressure I'd go for a start and keep ears and eyes peeled!

Never thought of that, could well be the answer, thank you!

[TJC46]

As someone else has said.....hot starter motor or positive lead feeding it. Are you just turning it over with the plugs out etc. just to get the oil pressure up ?

Starter motor or the lead feeding it, will not like that for long periods. Do the heater hoses run above the valley gasket and under the plenum ?

If so that may explain your coolant leak.

Normal pipes run along the drivers side rocker cover.

If yours are standard and the pipes run along the rocker cover, then you may have a leak from the inlet manifold which would pool directly in the valley

gasket.

If you have not already done so during your re-build, i would remove the plenum etc, give everything a good clean and refit a new valley gasket and seals.

Also fit a new plenum gasket, and you may as well fit new O rings to the fuel injection rail while you can.

[Steve_D]

Route of the coolant pipes will depend on if the engine is 'Serp' or 'Pre-serp'.
If serp then coolant in the valley will most likely be the valley gasket but also check that the coolant sensors, thermostat housing or the breather pipe are not leaking.
If pre-serp then all the above possible leaks but more likely the coolant pipes running through the valley.

Smoke will likely be the cable or the starter itself. The cable is IMHO rather on the thin side for what it is doing plus its length.

Steve

[tvrlee]

Thanks for the replies, all the gaskets have been replaced, including the Valley gasket, I will check them all on Saturday as well as the pipes and connections, hopefully I will find the problem.

I will let you know how I get on and if it starts!