1st and reverse shudder (NA 1.8)

[evo3742]

Hey guys & gals,
I got a this very recent problem, it started about two weeks ago.
I did do a search (Miata.net/GOOGLE) for this problem, but seem to end up right back to my tail.

What is happening is that when I take off in 1st gear or reverse on a cold start, no problem, but after say... 30-45 minutes of driving I pull up to a red light and BAM.... I become a dash bobble head at take off. Now I can kinda fix this by slowly easing into gear, but its a lot of work on my legs and well...lame.

I changed the clutch about 6 months ago with a Exedy kit, and didn't have a problem till now.

My car is a 96 with 165k on the OD. All regular maintenance done. No leaks.

I also read that it might be my flywheel as I did not resurface it when I did my clutch. I didn't see any kind of damage or "hotspots" so I didn't even bother.

AND YES, I do know how to drive standard transmission vehicles well.

Any suggestions gurus?

[Rogue]

Did you replace the Rear Main seal?
Did you deglaze the Fly?

[OZMDD]

I'm guessing you have a rear main seal leak that has finally soaked the new clutch. Only other thing I can think of that you might have luck with is making sure your hydraulic clutch system is tip-top. A poor pedal adjustment or failing clutch master/slave will also give poor engagement symptoms. The fact that it happens more when hot makes me think you should investigate those parts.

[evo3742]

Sticky brake caliper?

Changed my pads about a year ago... maybe?

Did you replace the Rear Main seal?

Yes

Did you deglaze the Fly?

I wiped it down with some degreaser, but no

[evo3742]

I'm guessing you have a rear main seal leak that has finally soaked the new clutch. Only other thing I can think of that you might have luck with is making sure your hydraulic clutch system is tip-top. A poor pedal adjustment or failing clutch master/slave will also give poor engagement symptoms. The fact that it happens more when hot makes me think you should investigate those parts.

Alright I got some chores when I get home.




thanks guys will do my P.I. work when I get home

[trackdog]

Clutch chattering comes from not having a flat, clean surface. Since you installed the clutch 6 months ago, odds are you may not have had enough end play and the clutch has been slipping just enough to cause hot spots. This is not uncommon and unfortunately not going to improve.

You should have about 1" of end play at the top of your pedal. If you don't, loosen the 12 mm jam nut and turn the rod which has a 10 mm adjustment counter-clockwise to shorten the pedal movement.

Gary

[OZMDD]

You are really special! Its not often Gary hops on here, much less gives some experienced know-how advice via the interwebs! The more you know...

[evo3742]

Clutch chattering comes from not having a flat, clean surface. Since you installed the clutch 6 months ago, odds are you may not have had enough end play and the clutch has been slipping just enough to cause hot spots. This is not uncommon and unfortunately not going to improve.

You should have about 1" of end play at the top of your pedal. If you don't, loosen the 12 mm jam nut and turn the rod which has a 10 mm adjustment counter-clockwise to shorten the pedal movement.

Gary

WOW! So on Friday I came home and did a full out inspection and found that the 12mm locknut was loose and the free play was out of wack. Then I put it back up to spec and now "Pep" runs perfect.

Mr Gary, I came on here today to let everyone know that I solve my clutch issue, then I read your post and I was flabbergasted that you knew exactly what the problem was.
I'm kinda freaked out a little.


Thank you Master

Did I ruin anything by driving with this issue for two weeks? What should I expect?

You are really special! Its not often Gary hops on here, much less gives some experienced know-how advice via the interwebs! The more you know...

I am not worthy
I am not worthy
I am not worthy

[black roadster]

WOW! So on Friday I came home and did a full out inspection and found that the 12mm locknut was loose and the free play was out of wack. Then I put it back up to spec and now "Pep" runs perfect.

Mr Gary, I came on here today to let everyone know that I solve my clutch issue, then I read your post and I was flabbergasted that you knew exactly what the problem was.
I'm kinda freaked out a little.


Thank you Master

Did I ruin anything by driving with this issue for two weeks? What should I expect?



I am not worthy
I am not worthy
I am not worthy

Just what Gary needs, a bigger ego.