Multidisc Clutch Repliacement?

1

1928Tudor

New member
Hi everyone,

I have a early 28 with a multidisc clutch that is making some noises. It was recommended that I have it replaced with the single disc clutch since I understand getting parts are almost impossible.

Any thoughts on whether I should replace it or find someone who could service the clutch?
 
Get in touch with Ron In Quincy (Ron Rude)...He is the guru on that one.

He is here on the barn.

I just wish he would do a detailed article on the subject.

Pluck
 
It is really an individual decision, but I would try to repair first. The multidisk clutch can make some funny noises and be OK. I would check with a few transmission / clutch shops in your area first. There is a very dangerous spring in the clutch that requires either a press or a special KR Wilson tool.

There are even some parts listed in the swap meet section right now that may be of help. http://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=18293

Ron is a great resource as well.

Let us know what you do.
 
Despite the bad press the multi-plate clutch has gotten, I still think it's a better clutch and has smoother/easier operation. Your noise may only be a bad pilot bearing or throw-out bearing. I have been runing one in my coupe going on six years now with no issues. I was considering converting to a single plate during the restoration but found so many parts for the multi-plate available, because people pulled them in favor of the singles. I have three clutch packs on the shelf ready to install and all were found at swap meets with very litttle wear. The hardest part to locate maybe an flywheel with the clutch external splines in undamaged condition. But I still frequently find these as well and on the cheap as again, no one wants them. I made my own jig for the main spring and it was not that big of a deal to contol during disassembley or build up. (Not like a rear leaf pack). All that said, you are going to have to pull the rear and trans for a swap, why not do a full inspection to try and locate the source of the noise?
 
Often the multi-disc flywheel splines have develop groves which interfere with the smooth operation of the clutch. Finding a good flywheel can be a problem. It is possible to convert to a modern clutch using the multi-disc bell housing so you can use the correct pedals, and everything looks original.

Ron
 
I converted my multi-disc to single clutch since I could find the parts so cheaply. Then before I started it up I put the multi-disc back.
 
I found all NOS or mint original multiplate parts to put my 28 back the way it should be. As mentioned, the flywheel is the hardest part to find in good condition. I had to find a mint one twice, as the first one mysteriously disappeared.
 
Ron and Tom are correct. A good flywheel is the hardest thing to find. There are still plenty of multi disc clutch units around and many very usable or rebuildable. The discs can also be relined.
 
Upon inspection the clutch and flywheel look inoperable. The teeth on my clutch are sharp as needles and the grooves in the flywheel are so worn there is not a straight surface anywhere. However the operation of the clutch is beautiful. I have a couple of good multi plate clutches and flywheels I have collected but there has been no reason to pull the existing one.
 
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