MORRIS MINOR

SHARP CLUTCH

QI

have been plagued by transmission judder on my 1968 Morris Minor – when moving off the clutch will snatch, and this will occur in both forward and reverse. I did recently fit a new clutch, which slightly improved things but has not cured the problem. One thing I noticed when replacing the clutch was that the cable strap between the gearbox end of the engine and the crossmember is frayed and broken. Do you think this has any bearing on the matter, or do you have any suggestions as to how I can smooth out the take up of the clutch? James Keighley

AThe condition of the cable you mention may well have a bearing on the clutch operation. On the Morris Minor this is there for stability – in the earlier days of rubber engine mounts, the strap was meant to take up the tension when the torque forces began to act on the engine, providing stability at the gearbox in a similar manner to the stabiliser bar on the engine. I would recommend replacing the broken cable on your car. When the new one is fitted, it should be set so that with the vehicle sitting on level ground it is neither slack nor under tension. Another point I would check is the condition of the tie-bar between the cylinder head and bulkhead. This should be set so that the rubbers are just nipped and you should be able to rotate the bar using your fingers, so again not under tension and not loose.

As you have recently replaced the clutch, I am sure you have already checked the last point I would mention and that is the clutch linkage, ensuring it is both running smoothly and without excess play.

This cable runs from the gearbox to the crossmember and is there to stop the engine/gearbox from rocking excessively. Check the engine stabiliser bar too for any play or perished bushes.