I'm sure there's info on this issue in the archives but I wasn't sure how to search for it. I have a '47 Super Deluxe with flathead V8 and when I started it after a month of sitting it grinds when trying to shift into 1st or reverse as if the clutch is not disengaging. FWIW, I can roll the car in neutral. This happened once before after a similar dormant month and I "fixed" it then by hitting the starter a couple times after putting the car in 1st with the engine off to jar/jolt the clutch loose. Not sure if this was the real problem but has worked for about 6 months since then until now. I had no luck this time with this trick. Can anyone explain what's going on and offer some tricks for freeing things up. The car shifts fine when it's working. Thanks
Help - '47 Flathead Super Deluxe won't shift
- Thread starter Tmusk
- Start date
I've had the same thing happen. Clutch plate is probably stuck to the flywheel. I got mine free by starting in gear and driving it. Probably oil on the clutch plate. You need to find the source. Maybe able to clean the clutch plate (after you free it up) by jamming the clutch pedal down and spraying brake clean between the clutch plate and flywheel And clutch plate and pressure plate.
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Doublepumper
Senior Member
Fairly common to have this happen with motorcycle clutches when they sit.
Have someone push in the clutch pedal with the transmission in gear. Then rock the car back and forth until the clutch disengages. Driving the car regularly will help keep the clutch from sticking. Good luck!
Have someone push in the clutch pedal with the transmission in gear. Then rock the car back and forth until the clutch disengages. Driving the car regularly will help keep the clutch from sticking. Good luck!
FortyNiner
Well-known member
Are the shift lever arms positioned moving properly?
Kurt in NJ
Well-known member
If it has been stored in a damp or high humidity location the clutch can be stuck by rust,it has happened to my A several times.
On the A I take out the floor board and the little inspection cover and slid a rod down against the clutch hub and give it a wack with the pedal depressed—- that usually pops it free if starting and driving the car doesn’t work, the a doesn’t have synchronized transmission and by matching speed I can shift —- shutting off at stops and using the starter to get going.
On the A I take out the floor board and the little inspection cover and slid a rod down against the clutch hub and give it a wack with the pedal depressed—- that usually pops it free if starting and driving the car doesn’t work, the a doesn’t have synchronized transmission and by matching speed I can shift —- shutting off at stops and using the starter to get going.
deuce_roadster
Well-known member
Another safe way to fix that is to put jack stands under both of the rear axle tubes so the rear tires are off the ground, start it up and press and hold the clutch and then brake at the same time.