So I've been reading about clutch creep. My 26 T definitely felt like it's creeping a bit when in neutral. So I took off the inspection cover and checked the low gear, reverse and brake bands. They all seem good to me. So I jacked the driver side rear wheel up and tried to spin it. It was cold at this point. It did seem to be dragging. So I tightened the bolt down on the linkage a turn, then a couple turns, then a couple more turns, and it didn't seem to make a difference. I then started it and the rear wheel was spinning. Even with the lever all the way back. When I start the car with the wheels on the ground it doesn't move. So the adjustment bolt didn't seem to do anything. And the clutch fingers are free of the ?? plate? Can I please get some feedback on this?
How much clutch creep is too much?
- Thread starter Justa6MB
- Start date
J Franklin
Well-known member
The cold creep while hand cranking a T has been likened to old dobbin nudging its rider looking for that lump of sugar back in the day. Not sure you should try to adjust much unless your up on what you are trying to accomplish. A free neutral is accomplished by having no slop in any linkage, and bands and clutch fingers adjusted correctly. If your wheels spin with the brake lever fully on you need to address the brake shoes, drums, & linkages also. To reduce cold start creep use a light oil (10-30 in mine) and park overnight with the E brake lever all the way forward. Good luck with your Model T.
Ok that does help a bit. I just changed the oil and thought the ole girl would like 20/50 to help with ?? year old bearings and leaks etc. And also I can try parking with the lever forward. I assumed the creep had something to do with the high gear clutch adjustment. But as mentioned the fingers do come free. For the amount I drive it I don't want to get in too deep. I was just looking for some input on how to gauge what is common or deemed acceptable.
Royce P
Senior Member
Actually not so much. Your T has a splash oiling system. With such thick oil many parts are not going to get lubricated until the oil gets warm. Do yourself a favor and install either 10W-30 if you live somewhere that reaches 100 degrees every day, or 5W-30 for more normal temperatures. You will immediately notice a difference. And your engine will last longer with better lubrication.